Transport ministry inspectors are looking into a serious incident in which a double-decker intercity train went through a red light, damaging a points system, news agency ANP reports.

The incident happened on Monday when the intercity train passed the red light at Zwolle on its way to Amersfoort and carried on for 540 metres before halting.

This means the automatic braking system failed, forcing the driver to make an emergency stop.

The incident has led to a reduction in train services on the route while a preliminary investigation into the incident is completed.

Brakes

The Telegraaf reported earlier this year that train drivers drove through red lights 175 times last year.

In 2011, there were 155 incidents, prompting major investment in better security systems to stop potential crashes, the Telegraaf said.

Trains are now equipped with systems that automatically bring them to a halt if they ignore a red light and are travelling at less than 40 kph.