First strike at ProRail today to affect mainly freight traffic

ProRail traffic controllers will go on strike this week to reinforce demands for a wage increase. The strikes are being organized at train traffic control posts by the trade union FNV. The first one on Monday will mainly affect freight trains.

Traffic control posts are central points from which traffic controllers monitor and direct train traffic in a specific area. Without these posts, it is impossible to run trains safely.

On Monday, there will be a work stoppage from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Kijfhoek traffic control post in Zuid-Holland. The strike will initially only affect freight trains, including the Betuwe line. Carriers and companies that use the train for their goods will probably be greatly affected by this labor action. They could be left with goods that spoiled, for example. It is also possible that ships that are due to depart cannot be filled.

Passengers may also experience inconvenience on Monday. “Please note that resuming freight transport after 16:00 may affect some passenger trains,” ProRail said. “We are working with freight carriers on a plan to organize the train service as well as possible.”

Later in the week, there will also be actions that will affect traint traffic in the regions of Amsterdam, Alkmaar, Utrecht, and Amersfoort. According to ProRail, these strikes, happening over morning rush hour, will lead to train cancellations and a great deal of inconvenience for the travelers on the track.

ProRail regrets the actions and points to the “favorable employment conditions” its employees already enjoy.