Mobility Newsletter - December 2024

Mobility newsletter December 2024

What's new in mobility land? At the start of each month, we share the latest news related to all things mobility in our mobility newsletter.

In the news 📰

Belgium's SNCB has introduced a new timetable with significant changes, including a 2% increase in train services and the launch of international routes like the Eurocity Direct to Amsterdam. However, domestic adjustments, such as reduced services between Antwerp and Brussels and longer transfer times at some stations, have sparked criticism. The changes aim to balance international expansion with domestic efficiency, but challenges like network saturation remain. For details, visit SNCB. 

The number of dangerous traffic locations in Flanders has risen slightly to 264 this year, with the province of Antwerp having the most (127). These "black spots" are identified based on accident data from 2020-2022 and involve infrastructure-related risks, not driver behavior. The Flemish government addresses one such location every six days, with 399 spots improved since 2018. More information is available here.

Mobility facts 🧮

Each year, 350–400 wrong-way drivers are reported on Belgian highways, often linked to distraction, substance use, or intentional acts like avoiding traffic. Although rare (0.4% of highway accidents), these incidents are highly fatal, with one in four resulting in death. Preventive measures, like flashing lights at highway exits, aim to reduce risks, with full implementation expected by May 2025. The Vias Institute advises slowing down, keeping right, and alerting authorities when encountering wrong-way drivers. Read more here. 

Did you know❓

- A new budget train route between Brussels and Paris was launched on December 19, operated by OUIGO, SNCF's low-cost brand. The journey takes about 3 hours—twice as long as high-speed Eurostar trains—but tickets range from €10 to €59, making it more affordable. With stops in Mons, Aulnoye-Aymeries, and Creil, the service includes three daily round trips. More details are available here.

- From February 1, Barcelona will impose fines of up to €500 for riding e-scooters on sidewalks or without a helmet. The city, which has seen a rapid rise in e-scooter use, aims to improve safety and address issues like reckless behavior and parking problems. Measures include a 25 km/h speed limit and stricter vehicle classification rules. Mobility director Adrià Gomila emphasizes these steps aim to foster safer and more responsible use. Read more here. 

- Belgrade has become the first European city with over a million residents to offer free public transportation as of January 1, aiming to reduce pollution and traffic congestion. With 700,000 registered vehicles and one of Europe's highest pollution-related mortality rates, this measure addresses critical environmental and urban challenges. However, long-term solutions like a metro system are still needed. Learn more here.