Belgium suspends Fyra high-speed train services pending review

Belgium’s rail safety body has banned the Fyra high-speed train service from operating on Belgian tracks until rail company NMBS can prove the service is reliable, according to Dutch media reports on Friday.


‘The Belgian and Dutch rail companies first have to draw up a report showing the cause of all the defects,’ said Belgian transport ministry spokeswoman Sophie van de Woestyne. ‘Only then will the rail authority decide if services can be resumed.’
According to the NRC, it will be at least Monday evening before the high-speed service is resumed.
Fyra services have been suspended since Thursday after the undercarriages of three trains were damaged by ice and snow. The suspension is the latest in a catalogue of technical problems and delays to hit the service since it launched on December 9.
Parliament
Earlier on Friday it emerged the Dutch and Belgian parliamentary transport committees are to hold a joint session in an effort to get to the bottom of problems and the heads of both the Dutch and Belgian railways will be called to appear.
The high-speed train replaced the traditional intercity service and there is no other direct connection between the two cities. Passengers are currently being moved across the border by bus.
Rail user groups said earlier this month only half the Fyra services are currently arriving on time.
Earlier stories
Fyra services cancelled because of snow damage
High speed train service Fyra still running late
More problems for Fyra high-speed service
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

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