Supporters of the proposed Nedersaksenlijn railway, which aims to directly connect Groningen and Enschede, are organizing a 35-kilometer run on November 23 to emphasize the importance of the project. The route will largely follow the proposed rail line, requiring new construction between Stadskanaal and Emmen, according to local news outlet Westerwolde Actueel.
The event has drawn widespread interest from residents and local officials. Drenthe Deputy Cees Bijl, an advocate for the project, will kick off the run, while Stadskanaal Mayor Klaas Sloots and Hardenberg Councilman Alwin te Rietstap have committed to running the full distance to show their support.
Organizers say the event serves as a direct message to policymakers in The Hague, where the project will be discussed in the Tweede Kamer two days later. “Why should my daughter, who studies in Groningen, spend nearly four hours commuting daily? This can and must be faster,” said Melle Mulder, one of the initiative’s founders, as quoted by Westerwolde Actueel.
The Nedersaksenlijn would reduce travel time, improve regional accessibility, and stimulate economic growth. Those interested in participating in the run or learning more about the project can visit Stichting Nedersaksenlijn’s website. The event starts at 1 p.m. at FC Emmen’s stadium and concludes at Makeport Mercurius in Stadskanaal.
