Trains between Dutch cities scrapped due to NS staff shortages

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) has been forced to scrap a number of trains between various Dutch cities on Friday and over the weekend, as a result of ongoing staff shortages within the company. 

NS running reduced timetable this weekend due to staff shortages

Less than two weeks ago NS temporarily scrapped services between Arnhem, Schiphol Airport, and Rotterdam. Now, with the busy summer season upon us, the rail operator has announced that a reduced service will be running on Friday, June 24 and throughout the weekend. 

On June 24, fewer intercity trains will run between The Hague, Utrecht, and Amersfoort. There will also be fewer sprinters between stations in Rotterdam and Dordrecht, and Leiden and Utrecht. More information about the adjusted timetable for the weekend is expected to be announced on Friday afternoon.

Dutch public transport affected by staff shortages and budget cuts

NS currently has around 1.100 job vacancies across a number of positions and has recently stepped up recruitment efforts and made changes to workers’ contracts in order to attract more employees. 

In addition to the current labour crisis, operators have warned that up to a third of Dutch public transport could be scrapped if the Dutch government decides to cut financial aid for the sector. This week, GVB - the public transport operator in Amsterdam - confirmed that budget cuts would “hit different lines” and “hurt a lot” when the new timetable comes into effect next year.

Want to know how the changes might affect your journey? Make sure to check the NS Reisplanner for up-to-date travel information.