Germany renames train station to Kuala Schlumpur to highlight climate change

Hamburg Transport Association (HVV), a transport association based in Germany's Hamburg, has renamed one of its stops from Schlump to Kuala Schlumpur for three days, according to Hamburg-based radio and TV broadcaster NDR.

A few other stations have also been renamed, including St. Pauli to São Pauli, Kirchwerder to Kap Verder, Hammerbrook to Havannerbrook, Saarlandstraße to Saharalandstraße, ad Stellingen to Seychellingen.

HVV explained on its website that Hamburg is also being affected by climate change. It added that various climate researchers predict that by 2050, Hamburg will be as warm and dry as in the Mediterranean. In line with COP27, which runs from 6 to 18 November in Egypt, HVV decided to draw attention to the urgent need for action and set an example regarding climate change.

Meanwhile, NDR reported that the renaming was part of the Hamburg transport association's efforts to raise awareness of rising sea levels, persistent drought and extreme heat, and "what it could look like" in Hamburg if no countermeasures are taken.

In total, 14 metro stations and bus stops were renamed for three days. A few netizens have also posted pictures of the renamed stations on Instagram. At the same time, HVV also said on Facebook that it wanted to highlight the importance of climate protection by renaming the stations so that Hamburg remains the most beautiful city in the world.

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