Anyone causing a nuisance at train stations from tomorrow can be banned from the whole station, including platforms, steps, tunnels and forecourts.

Junior transport minister Wilma Mansveld is introducing the new law, which has already been voted through in the senate, earlier than originally planned in the light of increasing aggression against railway staff.

As well as the station ban, people creating a nuisance risk a fine or a temporary travel ban. Violating a travel ban could lead to a higher fine or to two months in prison.

‘Think, for example, of drug dealers,’ Mansveld told Dutch media. ‘This law allows the transport companies to provide a pleasurable time at stations and a safe journey for passengers and staff.’

More staff

Earlier this month, Dutch railway company NS said it is increasing the number of conductors on trains and hiring 100 extra security guards to patrol stations to tackle rising levels of aggression against staff.

Aggression against NS staff has been rising for some time. In March, a female conductor was badly injured on a train near Hoofddorp, and two weeks ago a conductor and a passenger who came to his aid were beaten up by four youths.