Overcrowded Vienna-to-Zurich train forces police to remove dozens of passengers

Overcrowded ÖBB Railjet Forces Police Intervention in Vienna

Vienna police were called to Meidling Station on Thursday afternoon after an ÖBB Railjet became dangerously overcrowded. The train, which had departed from Vienna Central Station at 1:28 p.m., was stopped there because "safe travel could not be guaranteed," an ÖBB spokesperson confirmed to the APA news agency. Crew members then asked passengers to disembark on the platform, citing police authority.

Authorities did not disclose how many passengers were ultimately removed, though one affected traveler estimated the number at between 30 and 40. According to the spokesperson, some left voluntarily, while others required police intervention. The Vienna State Police Directorate confirmed the operation to APA later in the afternoon, stating the reason was "passengers refusing to exit." Officers did not board the train, however. "Police were only called in for safety reasons," a police spokesperson explained.

ÖBB Urges Seat Reservations

Earlier, passengers had packed the aisles, including a school group and a pregnant woman. ÖBB offered €25 vouchers for alternative trains, but many travelers declined. The Railjet finally departed Meidling toward Zurich around 2:30 p.m., roughly an hour behind schedule. "With that many people on board, it couldn't have continued safely," the spokesperson said. ÖBB advised travelers—especially ahead of busy holiday weekends—to book seat reservations whenever possible.