zeit.de
Southeast Germany Reduces Number of Unsecured Railway Crossings
The number of unsecured railway crossings in southeastern Germany is decreasing, with Saxony-Anhalt and Saxony showing notable reductions from 2019 to 2023, while Thuringia saw minimal change; however, ongoing infrastructure projects aim to further decrease the number of these crossings.
- What specific measures are being implemented to reduce the number of barrier-free crossings, and what are their projected impacts?
- These reductions are partly due to ongoing and planned infrastructure projects. For example, new railway overpasses are nearing completion in Hohenebra (Thuringia) and Glaubitz (Saxony). Further closures and replacements of crossings with underpasses or overpasses are planned in Saxony-Anhalt.
- What is the overall impact of the reduction in barrier-free railway crossings in southeastern Germany on traffic safety and infrastructure?
- The number of potentially dangerous, barrier-free railway crossings in southeastern Germany has decreased, but the reduction varies significantly by state. In Saxony-Anhalt, the number dropped from 519 in 2019 to 497 in 2023; in Saxony, it fell from 543 to 494. However, in Thuringia, the decrease was minimal, from 394 to 393 crossings.
- What are the long-term implications of relying on driver awareness to mitigate risks at barrier-free crossings, and what alternative safety measures should be considered?
- The remaining barrier-free crossings are located primarily on low-traffic lines and are marked with St. Andrew's crosses. Accidents at these crossings are mainly attributed to driver inattention, recklessness, or ignorance, highlighting the need for increased driver awareness and potentially improved road markings, such as waiting lines, to emphasize rail traffic priority.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The headline and introduction emphasize the reduction in numbers, creating a positive framing that downplays the remaining risk posed by uncontrolled crossings. The article focuses more on the decrease in numbers than on the continuing danger, even though a significant number of uncontrolled crossings remain.
Language Bias
The language is mostly neutral, using terms like "uncontrolled crossings" instead of emotionally charged terms. However, phrases like "potentially dangerous" subtly influence the reader's perception. More neutral alternatives could be used, such as "uncontrolled railway crossings" and "railway crossings without safety barriers".
Bias by Omission
The article focuses on the reduction of uncontrolled crossings but omits data on the overall number of crossings (both controlled and uncontrolled) and the total number of accidents at each type of crossing. This omission prevents a complete understanding of the risk.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by emphasizing individual responsibility (driver error) without fully exploring systemic solutions, such as improved infrastructure or warning systems. It suggests that the problem is solely due to driver behavior, ignoring potential infrastructure deficiencies.
Sustainable Development Goals
The reduction in the number of potentially dangerous, uncontrolled railway crossings improves road safety and contributes to more sustainable urban and rural development. Safer crossings contribute to the well-being of communities and reduce the risk of accidents, aligning with SDG 11 targets for sustainable transportation and safe, resilient infrastructure.