Dutch public transport companies have launched a joint three month multi-media campaign to convince travellers that ‘OV is OK’ and boost the use of the services.

The use of train, trams and buses, which fell by around 90% during lockdown, has now climbed to some 50% of its pre-corona volume, partly because people are still being encouraged to continue working from home. Losses for the sector have been put at around €500m.

The campaign’s aim is to convince travellers that public transport is a safe option, director of public transport organisation OV-NL Pedro Peters said. ‘Many people and businesses are not yet aware that they are more than welcome to again use public transport. That is the reason for the campaign. We want people to experience how pleasant and safe it is.’

Peters said people will be encouraged to travel off-peak and plan journeys throughout the day so crowding can be avoided. ‘We also ask them to respect the RIVM rules regarding face masks, and to stay at home if they have symptoms,’ he said.

The campaign will run until the end of the year when the extra government support for the sector will come to an end.