VR compensation applications reach peak

The number of applications for compensation lodged at national railway operator VR has risen following recent cancellations and delays, reported Finnish language daily Kaleva.

The increased number of applications for compensation was confirmed by the company's communication manager Janna Vi isterä.

"Normally we receive 400-600 compensation applications per month during winter season. Last week delays caused peak in the number of applications,” said Viisterä.

Viisterä, however, could not estimate how many passengers who are eligible for compensation but do not make application.

For example, previous Sunday's Intercity train from Helsinki to Oulu was over five hours late. The train had about 500 passengers.

"Certainly, there are compensations which remain unclaimed. However, we do not speculate on numbers," said Viisterä.

The cancellations and delays in recent weeks have been caused by freezing and damage of rolling stock. According to VR, most of the operated train service are expected to operate normally.