Most train passengers see no improvements to overcrowding

Nearly 70 percent of train passengers haven't noticed any improvements in overcrowded trains after NS implemented additional measures late last year, according to a survey done by Consumentenclaim among 2,228 travelers. Only 17 percent noticed improvements. 13 percent think the situation deteriorated, NU reports. Only 7 percent of the respondents indicated that they could always find a seat on a train. Nearly 40 percent indicated that they have to stand the entire trip, more than half had to stand for a large part of the journey. Those who regularly had to travel standing also indicated that there are too few support points to hold on to. NS will release the first results of measures implemented to reduce overcrowding in March, as agreed with State Secretary Sharon Dijksma of Infrastructure. "Because that is the first moment we can say something about the effects of the measures", a spokesperson said to NU. "This month some first class sections in the Sprinters will be converted to second class. We are also in discussions with provinces to also deploy buses on busy routes. Other measures to prevent crowded trains will follow later."