In Germany, despite the energy crisis, military transports should have priority over coal or oil trains. This is regulated in a draft government regulation according to which traffic routes for the armed forces may not be terminated. Germany not only supplies arms to Ukraine, but is also a transit country for military goods.
Military goods such as weapons are mainly transported by rail because of their weight. In addition to military transports, according to the draft regulation, energy transports for power stations or refineries and transformers should preferably be handled. “In order to avoid an immediate threat or disruption to the energy supply in Germany, a different logistical planning of the transports of energy carriers has become necessary,” it says.
Passenger delays possible
The scheme also applies to inland shipping, which is currently struggling with water shortages. The new arrangement could cause additional delays for travelers: ICE or regional trains should wait if in doubt.
Refineries and power plants also face the challenge that the German rail network is already under pressure. In order to safeguard the energy supply, especially in winter, the new regulation also prescribes that more coal-fired power stations must be running. The necessary mineral oil products for the power plants are brought to the region by rail.
Valid for half a year
The priority for military transports, followed by energy transports, should initially apply for six months. It is based on the Energy Security Act and can be passed without parliament. In Austria, a scheme was also presented on Wednesday that serves, among other things, to put the coal-fired power station in Mellach, Styria, back into operation.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
