EU Rail Associations Urge Continuation of Combined Transport Directive

Six rail associations in Brussels have expressed urgent concerns regarding the potential abandonment of the European Commission's proposed Combined Transport Directive. This directive aims to enhance the integration of different transport modes, particularly rail and road, to improve efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

The primary issue at hand is the difficulty in reaching a consensus on an updated definition of combined transport. The associations argue that without a clear and agreed-upon definition, the entire directive could be jeopardized, leading to significant setbacks for the rail sector.

These associations, including the European Rail Freight Association (ERFA) and the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER), emphasize the importance of continuing discussions on other aspects of the directive, even if the definition remains contentious. They believe that halting progress on the directive could undermine efforts to promote rail as a viable alternative to road transport, particularly in freight logistics.

The implications of abandoning the Combined Transport Directive could be profound. Rail operators may face increased competition from road transport, which could lead to a decline in rail freight volumes. This shift could hinder the European Union's broader goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable transport solutions.

Moreover, the rail sector's ability to attract investment may diminish if regulatory frameworks are perceived as unstable or lacking clarity. The associations are calling for a collaborative approach to refine the directive, ensuring that it meets the needs of all transport modes while fostering a more sustainable future.