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The Dutch roads were unprecedentedly busy in 2024.

Figures from Rijkswaterstaat show that traffic congestion, or the total length and duration of traffic jams, has increased by 12 percent compared to 2023. Minister Barry Madlener of Infrastructure and Water Management is responding by launching the 'Spitsvrij' campaign today. With this he hopes to convince motorists to avoid rush hour where possible.

According to Rijkswaterstaat, 77 percent of traffic jams in 2024 were caused during the morning and evening rush hours. Accidents accounted for 10 percent of the congestion, while road works caused 6 percent of the traffic jams. Given the planned major works on various national roads in 2025, traffic pressure is expected to increase further, even if the number of cars on the road remains the same.

Tuesdays and Thursdays are traditionally the busiest days on Dutch roads. The peak hours between 7:00 and 9:00 in the morning and 16:30 and 18:00 in the evening not only cause loss of time and frustration, but also lead to higher costs for both companies and individuals. Minister Madlener emphasizes that traffic jams are not only impractical, but also entail risks: “The traffic jams in our country are more than an annoyance: they cost us time and money, and they also contribute to unsafe situations.”

The core of the problem is that many motorists leave at the same time, which leads to an overload of the road network. The minister states that a different way of thinking is needed: "By choosing more consciously at what times we travel, we can significantly reduce traffic jams. It requires a change of mentality, but the benefits are great. Together we can make a difference."

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Barry Madlener
Image: Martijn Beekman - Barry Madlener, Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management

The 'Spitsvrij' campaign calls on motorists to travel outside peak hours where possible. This means, for example, that employees work from home in the morning or leave after rush hour. The ministry emphasizes that this is not possible for everyone, but even a small shift in travel behavior can have a noticeable impact.

The aim of the campaign is to motivate employers and employees to start a conversation about more flexible working and travel times. Research shows that people who travel outside rush hour experience less stress, are more satisfied and ultimately work more productively. “Those who avoid rush hour save time, are more satisfied and more productive,” according to the campaign message.

widely spread message

In order to reach as many people as possible, the campaign will be rolled out widely. 'Spitsvrij' will be shown on television, in newspapers and magazines, and on large advertising screens along the road in the coming month. Social media will also be used to spread the message. On the campaign website, vanAnaarBeter.nl, motorists can find information about rush-hour-free driving and planned roadworks.

In addition, Rijkswaterstaat will continue to offer up-to-date traffic information via Rijkswaterstaatverkeersinfo. Here, motorists can view not only current traffic jams, but also expected disruptions due to roadworks and other traffic problems.

Although 'Spitsvrij' can contribute to reducing traffic jams, the ministry emphasizes that the situation on the roads in 2025 will remain challenging. Major, necessary works on national roads are planned and will temporarily cause additional delays. Nevertheless, Minister Madlener hopes that the campaign will be a first step towards a culture in which avoiding rush hour becomes the norm for people who have the flexibility.

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