The Rail Passengers Advisory Committee (RPAC) expressed its reservations regarding the planned indexation of SNCB fares, asserting that the price increases do not align with the quality of service currently being provided.
In a statement released on Friday, the committee urged the SNCB (Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Belges) to engage in a comprehensive discussion about pricing levels and fare policies.
In its opinion submitted to the SNCB, RPAC acknowledged improvements in punctuality within the rail service. However, they pointed out that these enhancements still fall short of the minimum performance levels outlined in the public service contract.
Despite an increase in customer satisfaction metrics, the committee remains cautious about the fare hikes.
RPAC noted that while fuel prices for petroleum products have not seen significant increases since June 2023, the proposed indexing of SNCB fares could adversely affect the competitiveness of rail travel compared to private vehicles.
The committee highlighted that without addressing the underlying issues affecting service quality, simply raising prices would dissuade potential passengers from choosing the train over their cars.
“A broader debate on pricing levels and fare policy is necessary,” the committee emphasized, suggesting that an increase in fares should be justified with tangible improvements in service quality.
RPAC seeks clarity on the timeline for the upcoming fare reforms, which, according to the public service contract, are expected to be in place by March 1, 2025.
The RPAC’s call for transparency includes a request for SNCB to provide detailed methodological information regarding how performance indicators are calculated.
This transparency is essential for understanding the rationale behind any fare adjustments and for evaluating the effectiveness of the service improvements.
The concerns raised by the RPAC come amidst ongoing discussions about the future of public transport in Belgium, particularly as the country aims to encourage more people to utilize rail services in light of environmental concerns and rising traffic congestion.
Many believe that a well-functioning public transport system is crucial for achieving broader sustainability goals.
As the SNCB prepares to address these fare indexation proposals, the RPAC insists that any fare increase must be accompanied by clear evidence of enhanced service quality.
They argue that without such improvements, passengers may perceive the price hikes as unjustified, potentially leading to a decrease in ridership.
With the deadline for implementing fare reforms looming, the committee’s position underscores the critical need for the SNCB to prioritize both service quality and pricing fairness.
As public transport continues to evolve, the RPAC’s insights may play a vital role in shaping the future of rail travel in Belgium.
In summary, while RPAC acknowledges some progress within SNCB services, their call for a thorough evaluation of fare policies reflects the need for a balanced approach that takes into account both passenger needs and the sustainability of rail operations.
The committee’s ongoing dialogue with the SNCB will be pivotal in determining how future fare changes will impact commuters and the overall rail system.
