Increasing numbers of train passengers are refusing to pay the mandatory surcharge of €2.90 on the high-speed line between Schiphol and Rotterdam, as confirmed by survey results from conductors commissioned by FNV Spoor, according to the AD. This issue highlights not only the financial strains on passengers but also the broader frustrations with service reliability on the line.
The frequency of train cancellations and delays is pushing more travelers to forgo paying the surcharge altogether. Henri Janssen of FNV Spoor noted, "Approximately one out of every fifteen to twenty passengers does not pay the surcharge," indicating growing discontent. This sentiment is echoed by conductors who report witnessing many travelers opting out. Janssen elaborated, "Some are simply unaware of the fee, particularly students and tourists, but we also see individuals who refuse on principle due to service issues. They express their frustrations clearly."
Conductors have shown empathy for these passengers. "Many do not want to issue fines," Janssen stated. They only impose penalties on passengers who do not possess any ticket, as the €10 fine for not paying the surcharge does not seem worth the time spent managing fare compliance. "That small amount takes up too much time, meaning conductors cannot sufficiently check the entire train," he noted.
The NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen), responsible for train operations, acknowledges the decline in surcharge compliance but remains resolute about retaining the fee. The company must pay for using the high-speed rail line, hence the decision to uphold the surcharge to recoup costs. According to Janssen, "For as long as ProRail and the ministry make NS pay additional fees for using the high-speed line, you cannot expect them to scrap the surcharge for travelers."
Additional elements contributing to this situation include the anticipated increase of the surcharge to €3 starting January 1. Passengers have expressed their dissatisfaction with increasing costs without corresponding improvements to train reliability. Given the slower speeds imposed by safety restrictions, with trains having to operate at 120 or even 80 kilometers per hour instead of the intended 300 km/h speeds, the promised convenience of high-speed travel has diminished significantly.
The series of issues with the high-speed service have led to widespread calls for reform not only from the passengers themselves but also from consumer advocacy groups aiming at establishing fairer fare policies. Complaints have reached government entities as well, expressing frustration related to both ticket prices and train reliability. If the NS continues to ignore these passenger grievances, it risks losing widespread public confidence and goodwill.
While the situation presents challenges for the NS and its conductors, it also highlights significant dissatisfaction among the traveling public. Passengers seek not only affordable travel but also the assurance of timely service. The escalation of fare disputes could lead to broader discussions on reforming high-speed travel policies across networks.
The matter remains pressing as NS contemplates the future of its high-speed operations. No straightforward solutions are evident, but engaging with passengers and addressing their concerns may be key to restoring trust. Without genuine efforts to improve service quality and fare structures, the trend of passengers refusing to pay the surcharge may only intensify.
