Trains running between Boxmeer and Venray will remain out of service through Sunday, regional transport operator Arriva confirmed. Officials initially suspended services on Friday to allow emergency crews to safely manage the aftermath of a forest fire in the Boschhuizerbergen nature reserve, located east of Venray.
Rail traffic originally ground to a halt earlier in the week when the blaze first broke out across the protected woodland. Although operators briefly restored regular services on Thursday morning after firefighters contained the initial flames, the fire unexpectedly flared up again later that afternoon.
Arriva decided to halt all train movements on the line a second time as heavy firefighting equipment and emergency personnel returned to the tracks. The transport company stated that the ongoing emergency operations prevent them from running a reliable or safe train schedule.
Replacement buses deployed as containment efforts continue
Emergency services continue extensive dampening and monitoring efforts in the Boschhuizerbergen nature reserve to extinguish hidden hotspots within the dry terrain. The prolonged drought conditions have made containment particularly challenging, as embers beneath the forest floor can easily reignite under shifting wind conditions.
Arriva has deployed replacement buses along the affected route between Boxmeer and Venray to transport stranded commuters. The rail company advises all travelers to check real-time travel planners and allow for extra travel time while emergency crews complete their work.
@ anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
