Dutch rail strike halts trains nationwide except Schiphol route

The Dutch rail strike has suspended nearly all domestic train operations, with only limited service between Amsterdam Centraal and Schiphol Airport continuing for passengers. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

NS halted nationwide train traffic early Friday as workers in the central region walked off the job in a planned 24-hour protest. The strike, called by the FNV union, began at 4 a.m. and impacts key infrastructure, including Utrecht Centraal and the railway’s national operations center.

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International trains are only available for travelers exiting the Netherlands, while domestic use of these services is strictly prohibited. The Eurocity Direct line to Brussels remains suspended during the strike.

Dutch rail strike triggered by stalled pay talks

The labor action follows unsuccessful contract negotiations between NS and the FNV union. NS offered a 2.55% raise, which union leaders rejected, citing a 3.3% rise in inflation over the past year.

In previous years, workers secured wage increases of 9% and 6.6%, but the union argues that long-term inflation has eroded real income. Since 2019, employees have effectively lost 5% of their purchasing power, according to FNV estimates.

Dutch rail strike adds pressure to struggling operator

NS will not provide replacement buses due to limited availability. A spokesperson said full service will resume by 4 a.m. Saturday. Affected travelers may qualify for refunds or €25 compensation if they choose alternative transportation.

The pandemic significantly reduced ridership, and recovery has been slow. Dutch officials warn that fares could rise 12% next year if financial losses continue.

Further strikes are planned. Walkouts will hit the western region on Tuesday, then move to the northwest and east by Thursday. Additional action may follow on June 16 and 17, depending on ongoing developments.

Source: nltimes.nl

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