On Wednesday, the trains started rolling again, as usual, one week after the big fire at the train station in Hässleholm. Minister of Infrastructure Tomas Eneroth says there are things to improve after this week's train chaos, but everyone who has worked to get the traffic started again has done a good job.
- The train system has some sensitivities and this was probably a lit fire that created major concerns for the railway system, he tells SVT during a visit to the SYAB transport gymnasium in Kalmar.
Delayed trains are a major source of frustration for many and Tomas Eneroth admits there is more to be done to solve the problems.
- There is an improvement potential in the operators - that they have better order on their wagons and that they do not tear down contact lines and that we on the part of the state strengthen and renovate the railway system.
What would you like to say to the travelers who repeatedly stand on the platform and have to wait for the train?
- That we now have a government that is investing more than ever on the railways. We make the largest investment ever in both new rail and rail maintenance. Regional players, both here in Kalmar and around the country, invest in new train sets and new locomotives. That means it will only get better.
Do you dare to take the train yourself if you have an important meeting in another part of the country?
- Absolutely. I ride a lot of trains and it works for the most part. Then it happens that there will be delays. Then I am sure that as a traveler you will get the right information and clear information about what alternatives are available. There is so much more to do here.