‘Fewer breakdowns of express trains’
SLOTERBURG The software error in the Traxx locomotives on the high-speed line has been resolved. Technicians from NS and manufacturer Bombardier worked on it for months in collaboration with rail network manager ProRail and inspection agency ILT.
According to an NS spokesperson, all locomotives on domestic trains have now received the software update. These malfunctions are now a thing of the past. The Intercity Brussels will follow within a few weeks.
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According to NS operational director Marjan Rintel, the high-speed line is the fastest-growing rail connection in the Netherlands. "I am relieved that this software error has been resolved and that reliability for passengers can increase again."
According to her, the HSL improvement program also includes a help desk and additional training for train drivers in the simulator. "More expert NS employees are also on standby to deal with any problems and, if necessary, provide rapid assistance to train staff."
According to Rintel, the fast trains are operated by skilled drivers who are sufficiently trained for the complex high-speed line. "We must be careful that the technical problems with the high-speed line are not constantly passed on to our people. For a structural solution in the longer term, we really need to tackle the infrastructure, particularly the design flaws and rail safety," she believes.
The New Generation Intercity trains ordered by NS are expected to gradually improve service on the high-speed line starting with the 2021 timetable. "These trains were designed specifically for the high-speed line. The Ministry of Infrastructure has also made €60 million available to eliminate urgent bottlenecks," said Rintel.