Bruges (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – NMBS replaces trains with buses between Bruges, Aalter, and Gent Sint-Pieters due to construction, affecting travel times. Check online for updates.
The NMBS is launching bus services to replace trains between Bruges, Aalter, and Gent-Sint-Pieters due to ongoing construction for adding more railway tracks. This project is designed to increase the number of trains that can run, improve timeliness, and handle the growing number of passengers on this busy route.
What are the new intercity train route changes in Belgium?
Intercity trains from Eupen to Oostende and from Leuven to Knokke-Heist will cover a longer distance and will travel around 20 minutes more. The train stopping at Knokke-Heist will instead stop in Blankenberge so there are no direct trains to Knokke until further notice.
Coaches coming on coastal trains from both Antwerp and Genk will no longer stop on Gent-Sint-Pieters. Therefore, passengers have to seek alternatives to complete their trip. Though this may be inconvenient for them, this is a step towards upgrading the train service that will provide better service and more frequent trains.
In Antwerp, Infrabel is fixing the railway tunnel between Antwerp-Central and Antwerp-Luchtbal stations. This is part of a bigger plan to improve the railway system. Because of this work, some train services have changed. Intercity trains coming from Brussels will only go to Antwerp-Berchem and won’t continue to Antwerp-Central or further. Passengers heading to important stations in Antwerp will need to find other ways or transfers to reach their destinations.
Changes to train services between Leuven and Aarschot
Train services between Leuven and Aarschot are stopped right now because of construction at Wezemaal station. A new tunnel is being built to replace the Langestraat level crossing. This work has led to significant changes in train schedules. Notably, the Sunday 12 January evening train from Essen to Leuven will now bypass stops at Antwerp-Central, Lier, and Aarschot, following a different route than usual.
The L train that usually runs from Leuven to Antwerp is now being rerouted. It will go from Aarschot to Hasselt, skipping Leuven altogether. To help passengers affected by these changes, replacement bus services are available to maintain connections during the construction.
NMBS is advising travelers to check the online travel planner before they leave. This planner will provide updated information that includes all the recent changes to train services. They mentioned that by using the travel planner, passengers can find the best routes and make sure they are aware of any disruptions or alternative options available due to the ongoing construction work.
