KVB plans massive measures for more cleanliness in Cologne subway stations!

KVB plans massive measures for more cleanliness in Cologne subway stations!

Köln, Deutschland - The Cologne Verkehrsbetriebe (KVB) have planned extensive measures to improve the safety and cleanliness of subway stops in Cologne. In view of the increasing challenges through drug use and homelessness, there is an urgent need for action. CEO Stefanie Haaks underlines that some of these measures can be financed from their own resources, while others are dependent on political support. KVB estimates the costs of implementing all planned measures to several million euros.

A central element of the plan is the nightly closure of subway stops, which are to be secured by roller gates. This pilot project is first tested at Appellhofplatz. In addition to this measure, more frequent cleaning of the stops are provided. Of the 205 stops in Cologne, 40 subway stops are affected. In order to ensure cleanliness, the use of special cleaning agents is also considered in heavily soiled locations. The KVB plans to clean all subway stations every day, which would cost about six million euros.

comprehensive measures to support the homeless

The KVB also plans a shuttle bus to the emergency sleeping center and the provision of a "heat room" in a KVB bus. Jens Röskens from the Social Service of Catholic Men (SKM) points out that clear rules are necessary for homeless people, but also have to provide support and help offers. Anke Collignon from the SKM also criticizes the attractiveness of many emergency sleeping points.

Another important element in the security concept is the introduction of so-called passenger management teams, which from January should take on tasks in the areas of ticket control, service and security. These teams are increasingly present in trains, buses and stops to strengthen the feeling of security of the passengers. This concept complements existing approaches such as joint strips with the regulatory office and the police.

political support and financial challenges

A large majority of the council groups, including the Greens, CDU, Volt, SPD and FDP, supports the KVB initiative. However, Manfred Richter from the Greens calls for a precise examination of the proposed measures. The KVB urgently needs 2.5 million euros for 35 additional positions to be present at 20 stops around the clock. This project is made more difficult by considerable financial pressure, since the KVB recorded a loss of 131.4 million euros in 2023. The city of Cologne also expects high losses in the coming years.

The "KVB SOS" security concept adopted last year was only partially financed, and the financing beyond 2024 remains unclear. The concept provides for the attitude of 38 new employees to significantly improve the security situation in the subway stations. In view of these challenges, KVB not only demands financial support, but also a joint approach of everyone involved in order to sustainably improve the situation at the stops in Cologne. Further details on these developments can be found on the website of the Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger and Radio Erft can be read.