

So the rail networks are operated by private companies? I am not familiar with the various acronyms, but that would certainly explain the complexity… Everyone wanting their slice of the pie.
It certainly looks complicated:
Transport services are provided by over 40 companies. These include the Bayerische Oberlandbahn, the Deutsche Bahn that also operates the S-Bahn, the Münchner Verkehrsgesellschaft that operates the U-Bahn, tramway and city buses, together with multiple operators of regional trains and buses.
We (Queensland, Australia) have 50 cent fares at the minute - any public transport, no matter the distance / zone / etc is a flate rate of $0.50AUD. I assume any private interests are being compensated with tax dollars but at least it makes public transport simple and affordable.
There was recently a change from a Labor government (centrist?) to a Liberal government (right / conservative) so I suspect the 50c fares will be removed at some point, though they did make it permanent as part of an election promise. “Permanent” is a pretty flexible term from a politician though.
“So I was grooming this kid the other day…”
crowd laughs
Classic stuff.