More problems for Fyra high-speed service to Brussels

The Hague city council is hoping MPs will on Thursday approve steps to restore direct links between the political capital of the Netherlands and Brussels.


Since the introduction of the high-speed service Fyra on December 9, there are no direct trains between The Hague and Brussels. In addition, the Fyra service has been beset with difficulties, including delays and cancellations, since it started.
‘It is incomprehensible that the international city of peace and justice has lost its direct links to Brussels,’ local transport chief Peter Smit told Nos television.
The city council is now looking into the option of setting up a new train service from The Hague to Brussels, via Delft and Dordrecht. ‘In January we will talk to various transport companies,’ Smit said.
Flexible
In particular, cross border workers have been hit by the loss of the old Benelux train service. In addition, the Fyra service is more expensive and seats have to be booked in advance.
The Belgian railway company NMBS is due to hold talks with the NS on Friday to discuss the technical problems with the Fyra service.
The NS claims two-thirds of international Fyra passengers have arrived with no more than 15 minutes delay but is unhappy about the service provided to the other 33%.
Students
In addition, Belgian students are considering taking legal action against the NS because discount cards only apply to Dutch students. The case is being brought by a Belgian student who travels to Delft for classes.
The Dutch parliament is due to discuss the introduction of the Fyra service on Thursday. Many MPs are unhappy with the situation and there are calls for the compulsory seat booking system to be scrapped.
Earlier stories
European MPs to get sharp discounts on Fyra high-speed service
The Hague makes urgent appeal to keep direct trains to Belgium
Train tickets to Belgium set to soar in price
Have you used the new Fyra service? Share your experiences using the comment box below.

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