In a long-awaited development, the ‘Three Nations’ train service connecting Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany has commenced operations, marking a significant milestone for cross-border transportation in Europe.
Known as the RE18 service or Limax, the route spans from Aachen in Germany, through Maastricht in the Netherlands, and reaches Liège in Belgium.
Operated by Arriva Nederland in collaboration with NS and NMBS, this service aims not only to link cities but also to foster greater cultural and social connections across the region.
Michiel Cusell, the regional director for Arriva Limburg, expressed the profound significance of this achievement, stating, “This is not only an important moment for public transport, but also a symbol of international cooperation.
The Three-Country Train not only connects cities but also people and cultures. Let us build a sustainable future together in which traveling across borders becomes a matter of course.”
The journey to launch this service has been fraught with challenges. Arriva had initially planned to extend operations to Belgium in December 2018 but faced setbacks when required to retrofit its FLIRT 3 EMU trains with ETCS digital signaling technology to meet Belgian regulations.
This delay was further compounded by a protracted authorization process for the upgraded trains, which extended past a December 2023 deadline.
However, perseverance prevailed when approval was finally granted by the European Union Agency for Railways in March, paving the way for the inaugural run of the RE18 service.
The introduction of this cross-border route not only enhances connectivity between major cities but also underscores the importance of compliance with international rail standards for seamless travel across European borders.
The launch of the ‘Three Nations train service represents a triumph of persistence and collaboration amidst logistical challenges. It symbolizes a shared commitment to sustainable and integrated transport solutions across Europe, promising easier access for commuters and tourists alike.
As the service enters its operational phase, stakeholders anticipate a positive impact on regional tourism, economic integration, and environmental sustainability.
With increased convenience and connectivity, travelers can look forward to a future where crossing borders by train becomes more efficient and commonplace.
In conclusion, the inauguration of the RE18 service is not just a new chapter in European rail history but also a testament to the power of international cooperation in overcoming complex logistical hurdles.
As passengers embark on journeys that transcend national boundaries, the ‘Three Nations train service stands as a beacon of progress towards a more interconnected and sustainable future.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
