The advisory committee for rail passengers (CCVF) indicated on Friday that it “understands” the logic of indexing SNCB prices but considers that the prices are not in line with the quality of service. They constitute an obstacle to an ambitious modal shift towards rail, he adds.
The advisory committee recently submitted an opinion to the Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Belges (SNCB). The subject? A potential indexation of the train price at the start of next year. In this opinion, he welcomes the efforts made in terms of train punctuality. Even if the latter remains below the minimum performance threshold stipulated in the public service contract linking SNCB to the State. The committee also took note of the encouraging results obtained by the customer satisfaction indicator. This demonstrates continued improvement in the service.
However, despite these positive points, the committee emphasizes that the price of petroleum products has not seen an increase significant since June 2023. However, it is a key variable in the transport economy. According to him, in this context, an increase in train prices would risk reducing the competitiveness of rail transport compared to the use of individual cars. Especially in a climate where consumers are increasingly cost-conscious. The committee therefore believes that a broader and more in-depth debate is required. In particular on the price structure and pricing policy of the railway sector. This is to ensure a balanced and fair approach for train users.
Clarifications and details requested
Furthermore, the Central Council of Rail Passengers (CCVF) expresses its wish to obtain clarification concerning the planned timetable for the tariff reform. This, under the public service contract, must be implemented by March 1, 2025. The committee asks SNCB to provide all methodological information concerning calculating performance indicators. It is also necessary to provide details of any future price adjustments. Finally, he insists that SNCB justify its decisions in more detail. Enough to make price adjustments more understandable for stakeholders and the general public.
Thus, increased transparency in these processes could promote better acceptance of possible tariff changes.
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