Brussels, 20 September, (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Planned Brussels rail works are disrupting several train routes on Sunday as the Belgian capital holds its 26th Car-Free Sunday. The timing has drawn criticism from passenger representatives because the annual event is designed to encourage people to travel by public transport, bicycle or on foot rather than by private car.
Train services affected around Brussels
SNCB’s current passenger information confirms infrastructure works between Brussels-Midi and Nivelles and between Brussels-Luxembourg, Gembloux and Namur during the weekend of 19 and 20 September. Works between Jette and Dendermonde are also continuing over several weekends.
The disruption includes work connected to Belgium’s Regional Express Network programme. Since March 2018, infrastructure manager Infrabel has been carrying out major upgrades between Brussels and Ottignies and between Brussels and Nivelles.
Two additional tracks are being constructed on both corridors to double rail capacity. SNCB says work between Brussels and Ottignies is due to finish at the end of December 2026, while the Brussels-Nivelles project is scheduled to continue until 2034.
Passenger group questions timing of rail works
Brussels passenger organisation GeBOV has criticised the decision to carry out works during Car-Free Sunday and Brussels Heritage Days. BRUZZ reported this week that the organisation regretted that several rail connections would be interrupted during the events.
The timing is particularly significant because the City of Brussels is encouraging visitors to use rail services. Its official guidance states: “Please do consider travelling by train on the day.”
Car-Free Sunday forms part of European Mobility Week, which runs in Brussels from 16 to 22 September and promotes alternatives to private cars, including trains, trams, buses and cycling.
Brussels closes roads to most cars
From 9.30am until 7pm on Sunday, the entire Brussels-Capital Region is closed to most motorised traffic. Exceptions apply to authorised vehicles, including emergency services, public transport, taxis and vehicles with special permits.
The City describes the event as an opportunity to experience Brussels as “a quieter and more peaceful city”, with streets given over primarily to pedestrians, cyclists and other forms of sustainable mobility.
STIB increases public transport services
While the Brussels rail works affect SNCB passengers, STIB-MIVB has strengthened services within the capital.
The operator confirmed that its entire metro, tram and bus network is free on 20 September and that additional vehicles are being deployed. STIB has warned that metro trains may become crowded at certain times.
The day also marks exactly 50 years since Brussels inaugurated its first metro on 20 September 1976. STIB says the network has recorded almost five billion journeys since then. An open day is being held at the Jacques Brel depot from 10am to 4pm as part of the anniversary programme.
Further rail works remain scheduled
Passengers should expect additional disruption after Car-Free Sunday. SNCB currently lists further Brussels-Ottignies works for 3-4 October, 24 October to 1 November and 7-8 November. Brussels-Nivelles works are scheduled for 17-18 October and 14-15 November.
SNCB advises passengers affected by planned works to check its journey planner or app before travelling, as schedules can be modified according to Infrabel’s construction programme.
