Berlin and Munich Grind to a Halt as Transport Strikes Cripple Commuters

Public transport in Berlin and Munich faced severe disruptions on Monday due to all-day warning strikes. The walkouts left commuters struggling as subways, trams, and buses ground to a halt in both cities. Authorities introduced temporary measures to ease the impact on passengers.

In Berlin, trams continued running—but without passengers. The BVG and the Verdi union reached a compromise to keep the lines active, preventing ice from building up on overhead wires. This unusual step ensured the infrastructure remained operational despite the strike.

Munich saw widespread cancellations and irregular services across its transport network. Subways, trams, and most bus routes operated by MVG were heavily disrupted. However, S-Bahn trains, regional services, and buses in the surrounding districts ran as usual.

The exact scale of delays in Munich remains uncertain, as it depends on how many employees joined the strike. Commuters were advised to use bike-sharing, e-bikes, and e-scooters as alternative ways to travel. No other German cities reported similar transport issues during the last weeks of January 2026.

The strikes caused major travel problems in both Berlin and Munich. While Berlin's trams ran empty to avoid technical issues, Munich's public transport network faced partial shutdowns. Officials have not yet confirmed how long the disruptions will last or when normal services will resume.