Berlin. Tarek Al-Wazir (Green Party), chair of the Bundestag's Transport Committee, has welcomed the announcement by Deutsche Bahn CEO Evelyn Palla to freeze long-distance ticket prices for one year starting May 1 in response to the energy crisis.

Deutsche Bahn freezes long-distance ticket prices for one year

Speaking to the Rheinische Post (Monday), Al-Wazir called the move "the right and important decision." He noted that stable fares make rail travel particularly appealing now, as rising fuel and kerosene costs push up the price of driving and flying.

He added: "This keeps the train an affordable and climate-friendly option for everyone." However, Al-Wazir cautioned that the announcement should not obscure persistent issues, such as frequent delays and cancellations. "The root cause is the poor condition of the rail network and the lack of expansion and upgrades—despite special funding—to relieve congestion on the tracks." He urged the federal government to "finally set the right priorities and invest the money wisely and for the long term," emphasizing the need for sustained infrastructure improvements.