De Lijn has confirmed that ticket prices will remain unchanged throughout 2024. Any potential adjustments in fares for 2025 will be subject to deliberation by the forthcoming Flemish
government. This decision follows reports from Het Laatste Nieuws suggesting a possible hike in ticket prices due to increased inflation-related expenses.
The public transport company clarified, stating, "De Lijn has no immediate plans for fare increases, ruling out any considerations before 2024." It reiterates its commitment to the agreement with the Flemish government, assuring passengers that fares will stay consistent in both 2023 and 2024.
Nevertheless, De Lijn acknowledges the financial impact of "non-indexation of fares on operational resources." Ann Schoubs, the head of De Lijn, highlighted an anticipated annual impact of 25 million euros due to the absence of fare adjustments in 2023 and 2024.
In its memorandum to the upcoming Flemish government, De Lijn has proposed a budget increase of approximately 100 million euros to accommodate extended asset lifespans, including that of their raw materials. Overall, the transport company is seeking an additional annual budget of 300 million euros, covering environmental initiatives within the fleet and infrastructure maintenance.
Political Response
Flemish Mobility Minister Lydia Peeters (Open VLD) emphasized the ongoing transition within De Lijn, focusing on encouraging sustainable choices and public transport usage rather than raising ticket prices. Opposition parties Vooruit, Groen, and Vlaams Belang echoed the sentiment against costlier tickets, directing accountability towards the Flemish government for investing in De Lijn's services.
The Opposition's Stijn Bex from Groen pointed out Prime Minister Jan Jambon's apparent reluctance for additional investments in De Lijn, indicating potential constraints for Peeters in enhancing public transport.
Passenger Concerns
This news follows TreinTramBus's report citing over 250 complaints regarding De Lijn's new transport plan, which involved the removal of more than 3,200 stops. The public transport passenger association highlighted citizen dissatisfaction, emphasizing the challenges faced by those now inconvenienced with longer travel times, additional transfers, or extended walks to access stops.
Peeters affirmed readiness for adjustments to the transport plan if needed, an approach also indicated by De Lijn. The association emphasized the importance of securing the necessary budget for De Lijn, referring to the requested 300 million euros to address concerns and improve services. Photo by Alfenaar from Alphen aan den Rijn, Netherlands, Wikimedia commons.