Enhanced Convenience and Sustainability: Exploring Europe by Train Amid New EU Initiatives

Travelling Europe by train has always been a classic experience, and recent EU initiatives have made it more convenient and sustainable than ever. Last month, the EU Commission enforced new regulations for the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) aimed at improving rail connectivity and promoting greener travel. According to Schengen.News, these regulations are set to offer travellers more efficient rail services across Europe.

A significant part of these efforts includes the EU Action Plan designed to boost long-distance and cross-border passenger rail services. This plan targets a doubling of high-speed rail traffic by 2030 and a tripling by 2050.

At the 21st annual Rail Stations and Property Summit, it was reported that leisure travel increased by 19 percent in the second quarter of this year. The use of discount Railcards contributed significantly to this growth, accounting for 21 percent of revenue in the quarter, up from 16 percent in the same period in 2019. By the end of March, passenger numbers at the 20 busiest stations had surpassed 158 million, compared to just 436 "entrances and exits" at the 20 least-used stations. While rail revenue saw a 13 percent rise over the previous quarter, the industry still faces significant financial challenges. The GBRTT has called for collective efforts to drive growth forward.

The TEN-T program aims to have passenger railway lines on the core and extended core network support trains travelling at speeds of 160 km/h or faster by 2040. Additionally, all major cities along the TEN-T network will develop sustainable urban mobility plans to promote zero and low-emission mobility. The single European signalling system will be rolled out across the TEN-T network, enhancing rail safety and efficiency by phasing out national systems.

"To further support cross-border travel, the European Commission has announced its support for ten pilot projects to boost cross-border rail services. This will improve cross-border rail connections across the EU and make travel faster, easier and more affordable," stated the EU Commission. Young travellers can particularly benefit from the DiscoverEU program, which regularly offers free train passes to 18-year-olds. This initiative encourages cultural exchange and underscores the environmental benefits of rail travel.

Passenger rights remain a key focus of EU transport policy, ensuring European travellers are well-protected in case of delays, cancellations, or accessibility issues during their trip.

By fLEXI tEAM