Metal Pipes on Dutch Tracks Trigger Nationwide Rail Chaos

Metal pipes were found on railway tracks across the Netherlands, forcing ProRail to shut signals and halt most services on September 15. The Dutch infrastructure operator confirmed that the obstruction caused signaling and safety systems to fail at more than 30 sites, making it impossible to determine train positions. As a result, trains could only run on a few routes at very low speeds, and many crossings closed automatically, potentially disrupting road traffic. ProRail is walking the affected stretches to locate and remove the pipes, but it is unclear when normal service will resume. Police have been asked to investigate the suspected sabotage. The incident occurred on Prince’s Day, a national holiday when the king visits parliament, a time that often sees protests, though a direct link has not been established.