Local mayors welcome Lokaltog’s safety push on Gribskov line

Ten new drivers will join Gribskovbanen on 1 August as part of Lokaltog’s package of measures aimed at restoring stable and safe operations after a head-on collision in April left 18 passengers injured, five seriously.

Lokaltog’s initiatives were outlined to mayors in Halsnæs and Gribskov by email, drawing cautious optimism from local leaders who have endured months of disruption.

“I hope this can be a turning point so that it becomes a good workplace and the trains can run as planned,” said Steffen Jensen, mayor of Halsnæs.

Trine Egtved, mayor of Gribskov, said a reliable connection to Hillerød was vital for commuters heading to Copenhagen. “We look forward to stable train services again,” she said.

Driftsdirektør Stig Allan Nielsen said the extra staff would reduce vulnerability during illness, holidays and unforeseen events, easing pressure on individual employees and improving customer stability. He added that planned service expansions would be postponed until staffing levels are sufficient.

Lokaltog also plans stronger internal communication and enhanced emergency-call training. An initial investigation by the Accident Commission found the emergency button was not pressed before the April crash.

The company stressed that several of the measures were already in development before the collision.