Picture source – Albtal Verkehrsgesellschaft mbH
A high-ranking delegation from India visited the German city of Karlsruhe on 13 June, 2024 to explore its innovative local transport system.
The delegation, led by Maharashtra’s Education Minister, Deepak Kesarkar, was hosted by Alexander Pischon, Chairman of the Management Board of Verkehrsbetriebe Karlsruhe (VBK) and Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft (AVG).
Welcome and Overview
Alexander Pischon expressed his delight in welcoming the delegation, stating, “It is a very great honor for us that this high-ranking delegation is taking the time to get to know our local transport concept and our driver training in more detail.”
Pischon provided an on-site explanation of the Karlsruhe local transport model, which has gained international recognition for its efficiency and integration.
Delegation’s Itinerary
During their multi-day tour of Baden-Württemberg, the Indian delegation visited several key sites in Karlsruhe, including Oststadt.
In the evening, they were formally received by Mayor Frank Mentrup (SPD) at the town hall, where Minister Kesarkar signed the city’s Golden Book.
Focus on Training and Cooperation
A major focus of the visit was the training of tram and locomotive drivers. The Education Minister from Maharashtra explored potential future training cooperation between the local transport companies and the government of Maharashtra.
This initiative aims to enhance the skills and employment prospects of youth from Maharashtra in the transport sector.
Statements from Minister Kesarkar
Upon returning to India, Minister Kesarkar shared promising news regarding employment opportunities for Maharashtra’s youth. He announced, “I have recently returned from Germany with encouraging news for Maharashtra’s youth. That country has requested nearly four lakh trained youths, which presents a significant employment opportunity for all of us. Germany has specifically requested 10,000 trained youths in the first batch.”
He further added, “There are approximately seven lakh trained youths in Maharashtra. If youth from the state secure some of these jobs, it will greatly benefit them and their families. Once the decision is approved by the state cabinet, I will be able to reveal more details.”
About Verkehrsbetriebe Karlsruhe (VBK) and Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft (AVG)
Verkehrsbetriebe Karlsruhe (VBK) VBK is the municipal transport company of Karlsruhe, managing the city’s tram and bus networks. It is a member of the Karlsruher Verkehrsverbund (KVV) and partners with AVG and Deutsche Bahn (DB) in operating the Karlsruhe tramway network and the pioneering Karlsruhe Stadtbahn.
Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft (AVG) AVG operates rail and bus services in the Karlsruhe area and manages infrastructure. It is also a KVV member and collaborates with VBK and DB. AVG owns and maintains several railway lines and operates some regional bus services and freight transport.
This visit marks a significant step towards fostering international cooperation in the transport sector, with potential benefits for both Karlsruhe and Maharashtra.
