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THE CITY of Amsterdam is still haunted by problems in its tourism sector, especially tourists. Yes, it turns out that the Netherlands is facing the problem of overtourism or tourist density.
Overtourism is a condition where the number of tourists in a tourist destination is considered too high by local residents, so it starts to feel disturbing. Various methods have been taken, such as closing one of the nightlife centers, the red light districts De Wallen, to prohibiting the rental of lodging in three historic old city areas.
Because it is not enough, Amsterdam also plans to reduce the existence of tourist buses or tourist buses which have been the mainstay of traveler transportation to enjoy the beauty of the city. How could you not? As many as 450 tourist buses crowd the streets and canals of Amsterdam every day, as reported by The Star.
The number of tour buses operating at one time also has an impact on vehicle pollution which is considered quite large. As a result, the smoke from the vehicles covers several places.
In order to create a more livable city, local authorities decided to ban buses from entering Amsterdam city centers. Amsterdam City officials announced on Thursday (2/2), the policy will be enforced from 2024 onwards.
The policy is expected to address overtourism, pedestrian safety, and the risk of damage to the city’s historic infrastructure. Tourist buses weighing 7.5 tons or more will have to stop outside the city center, and passengers who want to enter the city will have to transfer to public transport.
Amsterdam has struggled with overtourism for years. Last year, around 18 million visitors spent at least one night in the city. In addition, there were millions of daily visitors.
According to the city government, around 300 to 450 tour buses drive into the city center every day. That’s far more than the limited space can handle.
The buses cause traffic jams on narrow streets and endanger cyclists and pedestrians. They are also too heavy when traveling on bridges and roads along the canal, and emit too much health-endangering fumes. [sources/photo special]
