NS May Skip Maarheeze Station Due to Safety Concerns

The Dutch Railways (NS) is considering bypassing Maarheeze station due to disturbances caused by asylum seekers from the nearby Budel center. NS employees face threats and assaults from fare-dodging individuals.

In 2023, NS implemented extra security measures at Maarheeze, Weert, and Eindhoven stations, including additional staff, fences, and cameras, which cost €2.3 million. The company seeks reimbursement from the government, stating that funds should focus on quality public transport.

NS warns that without a structural solution, security presence at Maarheeze may cease, potentially leading to its closure. FNV Spoor notes that previous costs were fully covered by the government, but NS now partially funds them.

Maarheeze sees about 1,200 daily commuters, with 2,700 incident reports last year, mainly involving fare evasion and aggressive behavior.

Source: NOS

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