The inauguration of the megaproject Stuttgart 21 is delayed until 2031, according to Deutsche Bahn. They blame failures in digitalization, poorly placed cables, and electrical problems. The initial cost of 2.5 billion has skyrocketed to over 11 billion, and the citizen pays the bill without anyone taking responsibility.
Failed digitalization or a sweet deal 💰
Failures in digitalization and defective wiring are real technical problems, but they do not explain a cost overrun of 8.5 billion. Construction companies know that the German government will not cancel the project due to political embarrassment. The phased opening in 2025 is an electoral patch to inaugurate something before the polls, while expenses continue to grow unchecked. The system allows budgets to be inflated because there are no criminal consequences.
They will inaugurate what they can before the polls arrive 🗳️
The best part is that politicians promise a modern station for 2031, but they will open a hole with platforms at the end of 2025. It will be like unveiling a kitchen without an oven or refrigerator, but with a commemorative plaque. Meanwhile, local public transport remains the same as always, and every German has already paid 100 euros out of their own pocket so that construction companies can laugh all the way to the bank.