Antwerp (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Without official announcement or celebration, two-way trams began operating in Antwerp, marking a quiet yet significant shift in the city’s transport network.
In Antwerp, two-way trams are operating without any advertising. They will disappoint everyone who expected them to provide a way to keep the right-left connection intact while the subway was being built.
There are always ‘bells and whistles’ when a new tram type is introduced on Antwerp‘s lines. The first ‘American’ tram did the same in 1960, and the HermeLijn, its successor, did the same at the start of this century.
A longer version, the Albatros, was later released, and yes, there was a party at the premiere.
The minister returned to Antwerp two years ago, accompanied by a number of dignitaries for a new tram.
The very unique moniker ‘StadsLijner’ was given to this Spanish vehicle. Additionally, the announcement that it will have a younger sibling was made at that time.
That younger sibling has arrived, but he has not been given a name and there is no celebration or extravagance.
Odd, considering that this new Stadslijner is a first for the history of trams in Antwerp. This tram does not require a squeaky turning loop because it has two driver’s posts, which allow it to drive in two directions.
Six vintage two-way trams were already on line 12 in the city, although they were borrowed in Ghent and would eventually need to return.
Although it is capable of driving in both directions, the new tram model does not currently do so. It uses the reversing loops and mostly drives on line 1. When a reversing loop is not available, the tram should primarily provide a workaround.
Naturally, the phrases “works” and “trams” conjure up images of the upcoming metro construction in Antwerp. The two-way tram would be a means to keep a bank connection while the work is being done, according to Trein Tram Bus.
There are two levels to the present Groenplaats station, each of which may be closed off independently.
Eric Heylen of Trein Tram Bus:
“The two-way tram could commute between the left bank and Groenplaats and connections are possible there.”
Eric Heylen Train Tram Bus said:
“The two-way tram could commute between Linkeroever and Groenplaats, and connections are possible there.”
Heylen offers one more thought. If line 8 is extended from Astrid to Groenplaats via Nationale Bank, tram users will have a lot more possibilities for short-term transfers.
De Lijn’s initial plans also included the deployment of the two-way tram. However, those have now been put on hold.
“That means it will take even longer to finish the works,” said Ann Schoubs, director general of De Lijn. The other options are superior, and those trams are not an option for us.”
Ann Schoubs, Director General of De Lijn said:
“That means it will take even longer to complete the works. For us, those trams are not an option and the other alternatives are better.”
Additionally, it would be more challenging to transport supplies and, if needed, leave the location. Additionally, Koen Kennis (N-VA), a mobility councillor for Antwerp, does not see any advantages to the Train Tram Bus option.
The debate over the new loop in Deurne-Zuid will also be rekindled by the quiet arrival of two-way trams in Antwerp. The development of that loop continues to face strong criticism. The neighborhood committee believes that the two-way tram would be the best substitute for the loop.
The debate will surely continue in the Flemish Parliament and the city council of Antwerp.
How will the new trams improve the overall travel experience in Antwerp?
With a low floor and a length of more than 30 meters, the new “Stadslijner” trams can carry up to 180 passengers and are easily accessible to everyone, especially those with limited mobility, making trips more comfortable and roomy.
By eliminating the need for turning loops, two-way trams make it simpler to change directions, increasing service dependability during interruptions or construction projects and cutting down on delays.
Combining walking, bicycling, public transportation, and shared mobility, Antwerp’s “Smart Ways to Antwerp” campaign encourages a multimodal mobility ecology. This is enhanced by the new trams, which offer accessible, frequent, and effective public transportation options that combine effectively with other modes through integrated ticketing systems and real-time information.
