German rail launches €20 billion overhaul of stations

German rail operator Deutsche Bahn plans to invest €4 billion ($4.7 billion) annually in the renovation of train stations until 2030, chief executive Evelyn Palla said.

"Over the next five years, this will amount to more than €20 billion in investments," Palla told the Funke media group in comments published Saturday. "We clearly have some catching up to do."

According to the company, more than 1,000 stations are to be modernized in 2026. Another 710 train stations across Germany will by 2030 undergo major renovation, 130 of them this year.

The main focus will be on improving the appearance of station buildings, while an additional €50 million will be invested in improving safety and cleanliness.

According to the company, it is working with the Federal Police to equip additional stations with cameras and video surveillance.

Deutsche Bahn has also recruited mobile teams of technicians nationwide to bundle and quickly complete minor repairs.