Tram Derailment in The Hague Follows Collision with Truck
A tram derailed in The Hague, Netherlands, on Monday, March 16, 2026, after colliding with a truck on the Ypenburgse Stationsweg. The incident resulted in multiple injuries, according to initial reports from NOS and Regio15. Another accident involving a car and a truck was reported on the same day by Broadcasting West.
Details of the Incident
The collision occurred on the Ypenburgse Stationsweg, leading to the tram leaving the tracks. Emergency services were dispatched to the scene to provide medical assistance to those injured. The extent of the injuries is currently unknown. Authorities are investigating the cause of the collision.
A separate incident was reported on Brigantijnlaan in The Hague, likewise involving injuries, according to AD.nl. Details surrounding this incident are still emerging.
The Hague Tram Network
The Hague Tram (Dutch: Haagse tram) is a comprehensive tram network serving The Hague and surrounding municipalities, including Rijswijk, Leidschendam-Voorburg, Delft, Pijnacker-Nootdorp, Zoetermeer and Westland. As of 2018, the network comprised 117 kilometers of rails and 241 stops, with ten tram lines and two light rail lines operating under the RandstadRail brand. Wikipedia
The network is owned by the Municipality of The Hague and operated by HTM Personenvervoer (HTM) since 2002. HTM utilizes a variety of tram stock, including GTL870, Siemens Avenio, and Alstom RegioCitadis vehicles. The system operates on 600 V DC catenary power, with 750 V DC used for tram-train vehicles.
Historical Context
The Hague’s tram system has a long history, dating back to 1864 with the introduction of horse-drawn trams. Steam trams followed in 1879, and electric trams began service in 1904. The PCC tramcar design, influential in tram development, originated from a committee established in 1929 to address competition from buses and automobiles. Tramway.co.uk
The tram network has undergone significant changes over the years, including periods of decline and revitalization. Today, it remains a vital part of the public transportation system in The Hague.