The EU puts railways on track for better future

Today, MEPs have voted on European wide rules to optimise the use of the European rail network, improve cross-border coordination and enhance the punctuality and reliability of rail traffic. These rules will in particular allow for better cross-border coordination between Member States to improve cross border travel and could lead to a 4% increase in overall European rail capacity. The regulation aims to boost both freight and passenger transport by rail.

Greens/EFA MEP Tilly Metz, European Parliament rapporteur, comments:

“Europe is banking on rail. From now on, up to 4% more trains will be able to run on the European rail network immediately without any additional investment. Above all, rail traffic will become more reliable, punctual and efficient: a real step forward for passengers, freight, the economy and the climate.

“For the first time, harmonised rules at European level will apply to the allocation of rail capacity. Combined with better planning and coordination, more flexible procedures and digital processes, they will facilitate cross-border rail traffic. Rail freight transport will benefit particularly, as these changes will help it meet current challenges. This will also benefit passengers: in future, they will be able to buy their international tickets much earlier, which will make it easier to plan journeys.“

Furthermore, the EU will, for the first time, introduce a system of penalties that will hold both infrastructure managers and railway undertakings accountable in the event of cancellations – a strong signal in favour of reliability and effective planning.”

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As rapporteur, the Greens/EFA Group managed to establish two new governance bodies, the European Advisory Performance Panel, which will review performance and monitor implementation and the European Railway Platform, which communicates market needs. The first ever EU-wide penalty system will also be introduced in case of unforeseen track closure or late cancellations.