Law Draft to Amend Section 23 of the General Railway Act
17 December 2024
Introduction
The German Bundestag (Federal Parliament) has introduced a draft law (Drucksachen 20/14237) to amend Section 23 of the General Railway Act (Allgemeines Eisenbahngesetz, AEG). The proposed amendment aims to clarify and expand the legal framework for railway infrastructure planning, construction, and operation.
Key Changes
1. Clarification of Planning and Approval Process:
- The amendment defines more clearly the roles and responsibilities of railway companies, government agencies, and other stakeholders involved in railway infrastructure planning and approval processes.
- It streamlines the application and approval procedures, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and expediting project implementation.
2. Expansion of Infrastructure Management:
- The amendment empowers railway companies to manage and maintain their own infrastructure, including stations, tracks, and signaling systems.
- This gives railway companies greater flexibility and autonomy in managing their operations, improving efficiency and service quality.
3. Digitalization and Innovation:
- The amendment recognizes the importance of digitalization and technological innovation in the railway sector.
- It encourages railway companies to adopt innovative technologies, such as automated train operation, to enhance safety and efficiency.
4. Environmental Protection:
- The amendment emphasizes the need for sustainable railway infrastructure development.
- It requires railway companies to consider environmental impact assessments and take measures to mitigate potential environmental effects.
5. Public Participation:
- The amendment strengthens public participation in railway infrastructure planning.
- It ensures that affected communities and interest groups have ample opportunities to express their views and influence decision-making.
Background
The proposed amendment to Section 23 of the AEG is part of a broader effort to modernize and strengthen the legal framework for railway infrastructure in Germany. The current law, dating back to 1993, is considered outdated and no longer meets the needs of the modern railway sector.
The amendment aims to address the challenges posed by increasing passenger and freight traffic, the need for digitalization, and the growing importance of environmental protection. It is also aligned with the European Union’s policy objectives for a sustainable, efficient, and interconnected railway system.
Outlook
The draft law is currently under review by the Bundestag’s Committee on Transport and Digital Infrastructure. It is expected to undergo further parliamentary debate and amendment before being voted on by the full House. The final version of the law is likely to be enacted in the coming months.
The amendment to Section 23 of the AEG is a significant step towards improving the planning, construction, and operation of railway infrastructure in Germany. It is expected to contribute to the modernization of the railway sector, enhance safety and efficiency, and promote sustainable transportation.
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Drucksachen a new article on 2024-12-17 11:00 titled “20/14237: Gesetzentwurf Entwurf eines Gesetzes zur Änderung des § 23 des Allgemeinen Eisenbahngesetzes (PDF)”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
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