Forced closure by drivers creates very unsafe situations during rush hour and proves dangerous for travelers.
After a disturbing incident in which a girl became trapped between the doors of a De Lijn bus, the Flemish public transport company, in collaboration with the municipality of Kampenhout and the KASTZE police zone, has taken thorough measures to ensure the safety of passengers. On December 5, 2023, on the route from Steenokkerzeel to Keerbergen, the incident occurred that led to a comprehensive evaluation of the door closing mechanisms on the buses.
From one detailed research, carried out by both De Lijn and an external expert appointed by the subcontractor, has shown that the safety mechanism against passengers being trapped functions flawlessly, except in cases of forced closure. This specific mode makes it possible to close the doors while people are standing in front of the optical sensors, a scenario that occurs when the bus is overcrowded.
Forced closing is a process in which the doors close while people are still standing in front of the optical sensors, often occurring on overcrowded buses.
This finding has led to immediate action by De Lijn, which is making adjustments to the software in collaboration with the manufacturer of the buses to guarantee the safety of passengers even in the event of forced closure. Until these adjustments are implemented, De Lijn has instructed drivers at the relevant school services to only close the doors automatically, using the existing security mechanisms.
In addition, De Lijn has examined the occupancy on the school lines in Kampenhout. Although observations show that there is no structural overcrowding, it has been noted that the capacity of the vehicles is not being used optimally. Passengers tend to stand close to the doors, which makes sliding inside more difficult. In response to this, De Lijn has launched awareness campaigns aimed at encouraging passengers to move on, so that the available space within the bus is used more efficiently.
Drivers from the relevant school services have been instructed to only allow the doors to close automatically, meaning that the standard security mechanisms are always active.
The municipality of Kampenhout and De Lijn both emphasize that safety comes first and continue to closely monitor the situation. As part of the introduction of the new Hoppin network, an initiative that aims to provide an integrated and user-friendly public transport network, the school lines will be further evaluated and integrated, with the aim of improving service and safety.
This series of measures underlines the commitment of all parties involved to improving the safety and quality of public transport in Flanders. It is a clear signal that passenger safety is a priority and that active efforts are being made to prevent similar incidents in the future.
