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Early ICE connections canceled: Commuters in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania worried!
The cancellation of early ICE connections in MV from May 2026 is causing criticism from politicians and commuters. Transport Minister calls for solutions.
Early ICE connections canceled: Commuters in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania worried!
Deutsche Bahn recently made changes to the ICE connections in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, which were met with criticism from commuters. From May 2026, the early morning connection from Rostock via Schwerin to Hamburg will be canceled, which represents a bitter setback for many commuters. This decision was particularly sharply criticized by MV Transport Minister Wolfgang Blank, who emphasized the importance of the early ICE connections for the attractiveness of the location. Rail.de reports that the cancellation of the two early connections is forcing commuters to resort to alternative regional trains.
The first ICE listed in the new timetable will depart Rostock at 7:04 a.m. and arrive at Hamburg Central Station at 9:12 a.m. Critics complain that this departure time is insufficient for the numerous commuters, as before the general renovation they could leave Schwerin before 7 a.m. and reach Hamburg before 8 a.m. For commuters from Schwerin, around 1,400 of whom regularly commute, this means a deterioration in previous connections. Tagesschau.de highlights that frustration is growing over the cancellation of ICE connections, especially as a new RE 1 service is being offered at 5:06 a.m., 6:09 a.m. and 7:06 a.m. but takes around 30 minutes longer to complete the route.
Criticism of the railway and the state government
The decision to cancel the connections comes at the time of the general renovation of the railway line between Hamburg and Berlin, which is currently closed. A replacement bus service will be offered during construction work, but this will leave many commuters dissatisfied. The railway justifies its measures with reference to the economic passenger potential, which is not sufficient for an earlier departure at 5 a.m. in Rostock. However, Transport Minister Blank firmly opposed this argument and called on the railways to find a solution. “The early connection to Hamburg is of central importance for our business location,” said Blank.
Political actors are also taking a stand on this issue: CDU parliamentary group leader Daniel Peters plans to have a conversation with the new railway boss Evelyn Palla and criticizes Prime Minister Manuela Schwesig (SPD) for her lack of initiative in this case. In addition, the transport policy spokesman for the AfD parliamentary group, Stephan J. Reuken, never tires of accusing the state government of being informed about the cancellation of the connections but not reacting. These political tensions show all too clearly how important the issue is for commuters in the region.
Conclusion and outlook
In summary, it can be said that the cancellation of the two early ICE connections from Rostock via Schwerin to Hamburg not only represents a cut for commuters, but is also relevant for the overall economic attractiveness of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Those responsible are faced with the challenge of finding a solution that meets the needs of commuters. The ongoing local and political discussion also shows that a good hand is needed here to protect the interests of employees and keep the region vibrant.