Dutch rail (NS) and network operator ProRail will take precautionary measures this winter and run fewer trains if bad weather is forecast, infrastructure minister Melanie Schultz van Haegen says in a written memorandum to parliament.

The object is to avoid problems in one part of the network leading to delays elsewhere, as happened last winter after a heavy snowfall.
The NS used a preventative timetable for the first time in June this year when a severe storm was forecast. Although the storm was not as severe as expected and despite fuller trains and longer waiting times, passengers reacted positively enough to make the move company policy, according to NS.
Passengers will be alerted to new timetables by Teletekst and Twitter the day before and stations will have new screens giving information. No one will wait longer than ten minutes for information, says NS.
Schultz says she is convinced NS and ProRail are doing everything to avoid the chaotic scenes of last autumn and winter. ‘Passengers’ interests are more central,’ she said.