Mechelen (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The N1 near Mechelen is closed due to an underground water leak, causing road sinking. Repairs led by the police zone Rivierenland and Dirk Van de Sande will take several days. Cyclists and pedestrians can pass.
As VRT News reported, the N1 road near Mechelen is currently closed because of a serious issue beneath the surface. A water leak underground has led to significant sinking of the road. This problem was identified yesterday, May 22, 2025, evening on the Antwerpsesteenweg, specifically on the lane heading towards Walem.
The road surface has dropped in certain areas due to subsidence, making it unsafe for vehicles to pass through. To address the water leak, workers are required to dig into the ground beneath the road, necessitating a complete closure of the road in both directions.
How long will N1 Mechelen stay closed due to water leak repairs?
According to officials, while the N1 road is closed to cars, cyclists and pedestrians can still use the affected area without any issues. The repairs are expected to continue for several days. They mentioned that fixing underground water leaks and damaged roads is a complicated process that requires time to ensure everything is done correctly.
The local authorities, along with the police zone Rivierenland, led by Dirk Van de Sande, are in charge of the situation and are keeping the public updated on the repair progress and when the N1 is expected to reopen.
The exact duration of the N1 road closure between Eikestraat and Maurits Sabbestraat remains unknown at this time. Specialists are scheduled to re-evaluate the extent of the damage caused by the road subsidence and the underground water leak today, May 23, 2025. Officials mentioned that this new assessment will provide a clearer understanding of the necessary repairs and an estimated timeline for completion.
Traffic is being rerouted away from the closed section of the N1 between Maurits Sabbestraat and Eikestraat to keep vehicles out of the unsafe area. Police have put up warning signs far from the closure to help drivers find different routes. While cars can’t use the road, cyclists and walkers can still pass through safely. Authorities are watching the situation and will keep everyone updated as the repairs go on.
