Train Ticket Price Increase Halved to 6% After Government Compromise
Train Ticket Price Increase Halved to 6% After Government Compromise
Government intervention halves the planned train fare increase to keep public transport affordable.
Dutch train ticket prices will rise by 6% in 2025, down from the originally proposed 12%, following a compromise between NS (Dutch Railways), the Dutch government, and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management. This agreement comes as NS struggles with financial difficulties, including a €109 million loss in the first half of 2024, due to the lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and rising operational costs.
The Dutch government will contribute €40 million to offset NS’s shortfall, while NS will find €40 million in savings. Passengers will bear the rest of the cost through the 6% fare increase, which includes inflation adjustment. Without this intervention, ticket prices would have risen by nearly 12%.
State Secretary Chris Jansen emphasised the need for a “structural solution” to avoid sharp fare increases in the future, aiming for a more predictable pricing model. NS, meanwhile, plans cost-cutting measures, including laying off 500 office workers and streamlining its operations.
Transport groups, such as Rover, welcomed the compromise, stressing the importance of keeping public transport affordable. The government is expected to announce further plans to ensure long-term sustainability for NS and public transport on Prinsjesdag.