ProRail is launching platform extension at Utrecht Central Station with works covering the widening of platform 3, one of the busiest platforms in the Netherlands during rush hour.
To implement the works, ProRail is concerned about crowds and is using crowd control for some time now to arrange everything properly, but not as a permanent measure. “That is why it was decided to widen this platform. That is a major logistical puzzle that will take us nine days to complete,” the Dutch rail infrastructure manager says.
The work as originally planned has been adjusted as, for example platform 3 would also be widened and track 5 and the associated overhead line would be relocated.
ProRail will carry out the preparatory work required for the project and will remove and relocate a switch, while it will adjust signals and will shorten track 4. In addition, the company will extend the second platform at track 3 and 4. This will create space so that track 5 can be relocated and the platform widened at a later period.
During the preparation, it turned out that the original project plan could not be safely executed within the planned time. In addition, the available resources are insufficient. Work had to be done while Utrecht Central Station was open, and the trains were running. It was not possible to work safely within the available time and with the available staff.
As the work is limited due to various factors, ProRail is looking for a new period to carry out the remaining work. Until the entire project has been completed, crowd control on the side of track 5 will remain necessary. This can lead to inconvenience for travellers at Utrecht Central Station, such as longer waiting times or crowds on the platforms.
Platform 3, track 5 side, is too narrow and the congestion is beginning to become unacceptable, forcing people to walk too close to the platform wall and wait. This lead to widening platform 3, track 5 side, with compensation for the effective track length 4, which will be affected when broadening platform 3.
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