Following their takeover of Utrecht’s bus services from QBuzz, the regional transport service Transdev appears unable to keep buses running properly in the Utrecht area.
The GroenLinks-PvdA party recently launched a hotline to gather more information; they’ve since received hundreds of complaints about the new carrier.
Here’s what you need to know:
What’s happening?
According to the complaints, buses are arriving late, being cancelled at the last minute, and passengers are unable to access accurate timetable information.
Speaking with NOS, one passenger says, “The bus consistently makes me late for work. Because of that, I no longer use the bus.”
Drivers are also having trouble locating their vehicles, causing significant delays.
Another interviewee said he’d seen buses at the central station with no drivers present, just sitting there.
Sounds…efficient?
Looks like you might be better off taking the train, tram, or hopping onto that trusty Dutch bicycle.
Who’s responsible?
According to Labour Party council member Titus Stam, “it’s market forces that are now playing tricks on us. And we’re footing the bill.”
Transdev appears to have had a messy and difficult start in Utrecht after taking over, reports NOS.
Unfortunately, citizens are suffering due to the transport company’s lack of preparation.
Software issues have also affected communication within the company, which certainly isn’t helping.
So what’s the solution?
Short-term solutions
Drivers will be receiving a new shift package, reports RTV Utrecht. The company hopes this will clarify employee confusion and reduce the number of bus changes required throughout the day.
But even Transdev has acknowledged that this won’t fully fix the problem.
A spokesperson also told NOS that other improvements will be implemented after February 8.
It is also vital that the company starts addressing staff shortages, information access, and easing demands on individual drivers.
Long-term solutions
Politically, Labour Party members say the province should instead focus on creating a public service.
Last year, a proposal passed in the House of Representatives that would allow provinces to establish their own public transport companies within their respective regions.
In other words, bringing buses back into the hands of the people who use them.
Unfortunately, Transdev has the ability to operate until 2035, almost a decade from now.
So until things start to shape up, we recommend taking the train to work.
Have you experienced these disruptions? Let us know in the comments!
