Dutch rail passengers need no longer worry about getting caught short on train journeys now that Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) – the Dutch railway operator – has announced plans to introduce ‘pee bags’ as an emergency alternative on trains with no toilets.

Under new plans, cross-legged passengers would be permitted to use the privacy of the driver’s cabin, according to NS spokesman Eric Trinthamer. The bag is attached to a spout filled with powder that turns to gel when in contact with liquid, which is thrown away after use.

But train drivers and passengers are shocked by the idea. Wim Eilert of Dutch drivers’ union VVMC said, “To let people pee where somebody needs to work will not do. It is distasteful.”

Dutch introduce 'pee bags' for trains