TreinTramBus’ origins. Since 1985 TreinTramBus is the organisation representing the Dutch-speaking passengers in Belgium, and advocating for its rights. The association’s origins date back to the 1980s, when the BRT (now VRT) broadcast a television programme called ‘Aktie Openbaar Vervoer’, which championed the interests of public transport passengers. The programme also promoted public transport, including the first ‘Train-Tram-Bus Day’. The discussions surrounding that initiative brought various stakeholders together, leading to a recognition of the need for more structured consultation. This resulted in the establishment of the Bond van Trein-, Tram- en Busgebruikers in 1985. In 2009, the association switched to the much shorter name TreinTramBus.

TreinTramBus’ work and activities. At present, a large group of volunteers is supported by a small professional team located in Ghent. Since 2023, Peter Meukens is its Chairman and spokesperson. For its members, TreinTramBus organises regional and thematic working groups, excursions, educational activities, a three-monthly magazine, and a yearly member’s day. In the past, the association issued loads of press releases, but nowadays, media coverage comes almost automatically. TreinTramBus represents the Flemish public transport users in the advisory council of the Belgian Railways, the Brussels mobility council and a number of other regional and local advisory bodies. It also advises local councils to monitor and improve the offer of Flemish operator De Lijn.

Cross-border collaboration. In the past, TreinTramBus has co-operated with Pro Bahn NRW (Germany) in its joint protest against the cancellation of the through Cologne – Ostende trains (2002) and with Rover (NL) against the cancellation of the IC trains Amsterdam – Brussels in favour of the faster Fyra trains (2012/2013). Nowadays, TreinTramBus is closely working together with Rover to reach an overall better service on the main Amsterdam – Brussels axis. Together, TreinTramBus and Rover are campaigning for a rail service between Maastricht (NL) and  Hasselt (BE) – after the former Spartacus light rail project has been shelved.

TreinTramBus Chairman Peter Meukens on Belgian television

Meeting with the Mobility minister, jointly with consumer & environmental organisations