At the end of the 1990s the Dutch national government began transferring responsibility for a number of regional railway lines to the provinces. Until then, these lines had been operated by Dutch National Railways (NS). Through competitive tendering, the provinces awarded the operating contracts to companies such as Arriva, Connexxion, Syntus and Veolia. Currently, these regionalised lines account for 9% of the Dutch rail network. These companies employ over 800 staff and 145 electric and diesel multiple units. Around 75% of this market is in the hands of Arriva. Following regionalisation, patronage on these lines has increased significantly, varying from 10% to over 50% compared to the pre-regionalisation period. The reasons for this increase are clear. The operators have invested heavily in new rolling stock, have increased frequencies and reach a punctuality of over 90% for all these lines. In addition, subsidies have been lowered. Passengers mention new rolling stock and improved punctuality (even in the winter period) as reasons for increased satisfaction.
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