Brussels, 27 October, (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The Brussels Kanal gas leak was located after emergency services evacuated approximately 250 construction workers near the Kanal-Centre Pompidou museum project on Monday, 26 October. The incident prompted road restrictions, precautionary building evacuations and an extensive investigation by Brussels firefighters and energy network operator Sibelga.
Emergency teams responded to reports of a strong gas smell around Quai de Willebroeck, close to one of the Belgian capital’s most significant cultural redevelopment projects.
The discovery of the leak allowed repair work to begin after several hours of investigations.
Emergency Services Respond to Major Gas Alert
The emergency operation began at approximately 1pm on Monday when a strong gas smell was reported near Quai de Willebroeck.
Firefighters, police officers and Sibelga technicians attended the scene to assess the danger and identify the source.
Authorities established a safety perimeter, restricted traffic and ordered evacuations while specialist crews examined underground gas infrastructure.
Initial investigations could not immediately determine whether the leak involved a low-pressure or medium-pressure pipeline.
By Monday evening, Sibelga technicians had expanded excavation work to inspect the affected network.
Local broadcaster BRUZZ subsequently reported that the leak had been located and repair operations were underway.
Hundreds Evacuated Near Kanal-Centre Pompidou
Approximately 250 construction workers were evacuated from the Kanal museum development as a precaution.
Kanal spokesperson David Salomonowicz confirmed the approximate number of workers present at the site during the emergency.
Three neighbouring buildings were also evacuated while emergency services assessed potential risks.
Fire service spokesperson Walter Derieuw indicated that inspections of nearby properties had not detected gas.
The evacuation temporarily disrupted construction activity and access to the surrounding area.
Sibelga Confirms Underground Safety Investigations
Brussels energy network operator Sibelga confirmed that emergency technicians were conducting underground inspections to identify the source of the gas smell.
The company coordinated its response with firefighters and other emergency services.
Its evening update described additional excavation and technical checks around the pipeline.
Although subsequent reporting confirmed that the source had been identified, the available information did not establish that all repairs had been completed or that every restriction had been lifted.
Gas Emergency Disrupts Landmark Brussels Museum Project
The incident occurred beside the former Citroën garage being transformed into Kanal-Centre Pompidou, a major modern and contemporary art museum.
The cultural development is intended to strengthen Brussels’ international artistic profile and revitalise the canal district.
The museum is scheduled to open on 28 November 2026.
The development had previously faced disruption following a fire in July, adding pressure to preparations ahead of its planned opening.
However, authorities have not confirmed that Monday’s emergency will affect the scheduled inauguration.
What Happens Next for the Brussels Canal District?
Repair teams must complete the necessary technical work and confirm that the affected infrastructure is safe.
The Brussels Kanal gas leak has highlighted the importance of emergency coordination in densely developed urban areas, particularly around major construction projects.
Further official updates will determine whether any remaining restrictions can be removed and when normal activity can fully resume.
Residents who notice a suspected gas leak can contact Sibelga’s emergency service on 0800 19 400.
