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Municipality will not open IJtunnel to cyclists and pedestrians during major public transport strike on September 9

Municipality will not open IJtunnel to cyclists and pedestrians during major public transport strike on September 9

Amsterdam will not open the IJtunnel to cyclists and pedestrians during the September 9 public transport strike due to significant safety concerns. Local officials decided against the measure following past accidents and the rise of high-speed electric bicycles, instead advising residents to work from home.

The Amsterdam municipality has announced that the IJtunnel will not be opened to cyclists and pedestrians during the upcoming public transport strike on September 9. Despite concerns over accessibility for the 112,000 residents of Amsterdam-Noord who rely on ferry services, traffic alderman Moeskops cited significant safety risks. The decision follows data from a 2019 strike, when the tunnel opening resulted in eight accidents and prompted concerns regarding increased traffic density and speed variations caused by electric bicycles and fatbikes. The official stated that the environment is currently too hazardous for such measures. Officials are instead urging residents to work from home if possible during the industrial action. The strike, organized by the FNV union, is a protest against government plans to implement 6.5 billion euros in social security cuts, including adjustments to retirement age and unemployment benefits. While the ferries will remain docked due to staff participation, the Schellingwouderbrug will stay open to all traffic.

Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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