Trains between Dutch cities have been canceled due to a shortage of NS staff

Netherlands Spoorwegen (NS) was forced to cancel a number of trains between various Dutch cities on Friday and at the weekend as a result of a constant shortage of staff in the company.

NS Running has a shortened schedule this weekend due to staff shortages

Less than two weeks ago, NS temporarily refused to communicate between Arnhem, Schiphol Airport and Rotterdam. Now, due to the busy summer season, the railway operator has announced that on Friday, June 24, and throughout the weekend will run discounted service.

On June 24, fewer long-distance trains will run between The Hague, Utrecht and Amersfoort. There will also be fewer sprinters between stations in Rotterdam and Dardrecht, as well as in Leiden and Utrecht. More information on the adjusted schedule for the weekend is expected to be announced Friday afternoon.

Dutch public transport has suffered from staff shortages and budget cuts

NS currently has about 1,100 vacancies in a number of positions and has recently intensified recruitment efforts and made changes to employment contracts to attract more employees.

In addition to the current labor crisis, operators warn that up to a third of Dutch public transport could be canceled if the Dutch government decides to cut financial aid for the sector. This week, GVB, Amsterdam’s public transport operator, confirmed that the budget cuts would “affect different lines” and “hurt very much” if the new timetable takes effect next year.

Want to know how change can affect your journey? Be sure to check out NS Reisplanner for up-to-date travel information.