The Netherlands will be closed, but this will also increase the pressure on public transport. Pedro Peters of OV-Nederland is convinced that it can handle this. He therefore does not want to think about measures such as refusing the elderly. From 1 June, the public transport will run again according to the normal timetable, but at 40 percent of the capacity and with a mandatory mask for the traveler.

try on a voluntary basis first

The last weeks emphasize More and more transport experts believe that stricter means are needed to avoid crowding at stations and on trains. This could include an app on the mobile phone that determines who can and who cannot enter the train or bus at certain times. Chairman Pedro Peters of OV-Nederland, the umbrella organization of transport companies, sees no point in measures that select people who can be transported for the time being.

“The idea is that we don't need it. It is really our intention to avoid determining who is and who is not. ” He therefore does not like the suggestion to keep older passengers out of rush hour. “That is really the last thing we would like and does not suit the Netherlands. Let's try it on a voluntary basis first. ”

zandvoort

This weekend, the NS had to call on travelers not to take the train to Zandvoort, because trains towards the seaside resort were in danger of becoming overcrowded.

Nevertheless, according to Peters, a situation like in Zandvoort is really an incident. He is not concerned about the increasing crowds in public transport. “So far it is going really well. The number of travelers has decreased by 90 percent in recent weeks. That happened entirely voluntarily. Now we have to start things up step by step. ”

maintain as always

Transport companies will use their own BOAs to ensure that travelers adhere to measures such as wearing a mask and keeping a sufficient distance. Fines will be issued where necessary.

“We are going to enforce in the same way as we always did,” says Peters. “There are now only two things added. But we warn and will only impose fines as a last resort, if someone really does not cooperate. ”

Also read: Border crossing with Belgium will remain closed until June 8