The Dutch railway company Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) wants to ban passengers from placing bags on empty seats. A spokesperson announced the plan following a report by the broadcaster NOS. The company wants to make storing luggage on laps or in overhead racks the new standard for everyone.
Currently, passengers may place bags on empty seats if no one else needs the space. However, NS reports that travellers increasingly hesitate to confront each other about seat-hogging. The new rule aims to prevent these awkward social interactions. By making empty seats the default, travellers will no longer have to ask others to move their belongings.
Rising frustration among passengers
The traveller group Rover notes that seat-hogging remains one of the top three frustrations on Dutch trains. Rover supports the initiative. The group believes a clear campaign will encourage passengers to keep seats clear voluntarily.
The railway operator does not plan to issue fines for placing bags on seats. Instead, the company wants to change social habits through customer campaigns and reminders from conductors.
Review by transport watchdog
Before NS can change its rules, it must submit a formal proposal to the public transport consumer organisation Locov. This national watchdog will evaluate the request.
If Locov rejects the plan, NS may have to scrap the policy. If approved, the rule will apply across the entire rail network. The ban will remain in effect even on quiet trains with plenty of empty seats.
@ anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
