The Bahncard 25 and the Bahncard 50 have only been available digitally since June 2024 – the respective plastic card has become obsolete. However, there is currently serious criticism of Deutsche Bahn from politicians and social associations. People would be excluded from social participation, according to the warning.
Since the beginning of June 2024, the Bahncard 25 and BahnCard 50 have only been available online as a digital version. Passengers must also set up a customer account. The Bahncard 100, which only has a relatively few subscribers, will continue to be available as a plastic card in the future. Deutsche Bahn’s aim is to avoid waste with this measure.
Clear criticism of the digital BahnCard
Loud official information Around 5.5 million people used a Bahncard in 2023. Most passengers therefore relied on the Bahncard 25 (3.7 million). Around 1.2 million people had booked the Bahncard 50. Only 400,000 bought the Bahncard 100.
The social association VdK and several politicians have now clearly criticized Deutsche Bahn’s decision. Union parliamentary group vice-president Steffen Bilger (CDU) said this to the Rhenish Post for example, that Deutsche Bahn as a company has a special responsibility.
Millions of travelers of all ages depend on the offer. According to Bilger, there should therefore be a choice between digital and analogue Bahncard. Bundestag member Nadine Heselhaus (SPD) takes the same approach. Although digitalization brings advantages, it should not lead to a large number of people being excluded from social participation. Heselhaus pointed out that 3.1 million people in Germany had not yet used the Internet.
Deutsche Bahn rejects criticism
Verena Bentele, President of the social association VdK, added that the railway offers customers without smartphones a replacement document in the DB travel centers. However, this offer is not sufficiently advertised. Many VdK members also report that the replacement document is not available everywhere.
Deutsche Bahn had initially rejected criticism of the digital BahnCard. The reason: It is still possible to carry the BahnCard 25 and 50 with you as a paper printout. They are available at the company’s customer centers. However, rail customers also need a digital customer account for this.
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The post “People are excluded”: Massive criticism of the digital rail card by Fabian Peters appeared first on BASIC thinking. Follow us too Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
As a Tech Industry expert, I believe that the criticism of the digital rail card for excluding people is valid and concerning. In today’s digital age, it is essential for technology to be inclusive and accessible to all individuals, regardless of their age, income, or technological literacy.
The digital rail card may be convenient for some people, but it should not come at the expense of excluding others who may not have access to smartphones or the internet. It is important for companies to consider the needs of all their customers and provide alternative options for those who may not be able to use digital services.
Furthermore, excluding certain groups of people from accessing essential services like rail transportation can further perpetuate inequalities and limit opportunities for those already marginalized in society. It is crucial for companies in the tech industry to prioritize inclusivity and ensure that their products and services are accessible to everyone.
Overall, the criticism of the digital rail card for excluding people highlights the importance of designing technology with diversity and inclusivity in mind. By considering the needs of all individuals, companies can create more equitable and user-friendly products that benefit society as a whole.
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