This case is discussed in the ORF programme Bürgeranwalt (Citizens' Advocate) from 15 February 2025, where Ombudswoman Gaby Schwarz takes a clear position: "This is no way to treat passengers. Information from staff on how and where alternative public transport connections can be found is the very least." In addition, the contract of carriage with the purchase of the ticket obliges railway companies to exercise due diligence towards passengers. "There is no direct entitlement to reimbursement of taxi costs. However, it would be desirable if Badner Bahn would voluntarily consider appropriate compensation," says Gaby Schwarz.
Enquiry: First stage success in questionable reallocation
In the "Bürgeranwalt" programme on 7 December 2024, Ombudswoman Gaby Schwarz criticised a questionable reclassification by the municipality of Wilfersdorf. Without informing the owner, an area of his property was redesignated as a 6-metre-wide public traffic area by the municipal council. It protrudes up to 4.5 metres onto his land and runs right through the middle of the residential building on it.
In the meantime, a first stage success has been achieved with the support of the Ombudsman Board: The passageway is being narrowed. The homeowner will cede part of his property and buy other parts of the land from the municipality in return. The neighbours would also agree to this solution. "However, the area in question is still dedicated as a traffic area. I urgently appeal to the municipality to reclassify the remaining passageway correctly," emphasises Ombudswoman Gaby Schwarz.
