EU member states encouraged by UITP to adopt rail regulation recast

The International Association for Public Transport (UITP) has encouraged EU member states to adopt the compromise proposal on the recast of regulation 1371/2007 on rail passengers’ rights and obligations.

Member states are soon to vote on a text which aims to make rail transport more attractive and accessible to passengers, while making sure it remains affordable and competitive compared to other transport modes.

The Rail Passengers’ rights regulation text is said to reach a workable balance between the reinforcement of rights for rail passengers and the obligations of railway operators. 

While making sure appropriate assistance is offered, the compromise proposal reached by the Finnish Presidency, regarding the recast of regulation 1371/2007 on rail passengers’ rights and obligations, will reportedly:

• Strengthen the rights of passengers in the event of delays and cancellations
• Ensure more dedicated assistance to passengers with reduced mobility
• Give a strong impulse for more through-ticket offers
• Recognise that operators should not be financially penalised when extraordinary circumstances cause delays and/or cancellations.

The proposed text is also said to recognise the special operational and financial framework of regional, suburban and urban rail passenger transport services.

The Presidency’s compromise proposal contains new requirements which, as they take specificities into account and implement them, offer a true protection for passengers, according to UITP.