Spoorwegen

Spoorwegen is the Dutch term for railway systems, including tracks, stations, rolling stock, signalling, and the networks used to transport passengers and freight.

The development of spoorwegen began in the 19th century with private and municipal railways; the Netherlands’ first main line opened in 1839 between Amsterdam and Haarlem. Over the 20th century lines were expanded and the sector shifted toward public ownership and regulation.

Today the Dutch rail system consists of a separation between infrastructure and operations: ProRail manages the tracks and stations; passenger services are primarily operated by Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and other licensed operators; freight services are provided by several freight companies. The network uses standard gauge (1435 mm) and features electrification on most lines, with high-speed and international connections on select routes.

Across Europe, spoorwegen are coordinated through cross-border rules and European Union standards, affecting timetables, safety, competition, and interoperability. In the Netherlands investment focuses on capacity, reliability, and modernization, including upgrades to signalling systems, procurement of new rolling stock, and expansions to key corridors.