Mechelen (The Brussels Morning Newspaper): Infrabel is starting significant construction on the Mechelen-Leuven train line from August 19 to September 1, replacing tracks and updating systems. Bus replacements will occur on weekdays with potential service disruptions. Passengers should check schedules for updates.
Infrabel the company that manages Belgium’s railway tracks is starting big construction work on the train line between Mechelen and Leuven on Monday, August 19. They will be replacing old tracks updating the overhead power lines and fixing the signaling systems. These upgrades are important to keep train travel safe and reliable on this busy route. It has been said that these improvements are very important for keeping the railway network running smoothly and safely. While the work is being done there might be some changes or delays to train services on the Mechelen-Leuven line so it’s a good idea for passengers to check for updates from the train companies. In the end these upgrades will help the railway work better, reduce delays and breakdowns and provide a more reliable service for everyone including passengers and freight.
What are the impacts of the Mechelen-Leuven train line construction from August 19 to September 1?
From August 19 to September 1 there will be bus replacements instead of trains between Mechelen and Wespelaar-Tildonk on weekdays because of the construction work by Infrabel. This change will affect train services on this route so passengers should be ready for possible delays or disruptions. For people traveling between Mechelen and Muizen, the NMBS suggests using the S4 train service which runs from Aalst to Brussels-Schuman and then to Mechelen. It’s important to know that some P trains won’t be running during this time so passengers should check the updated schedules to ensure a smooth trip. During the weekends from August 19 to September 1 train services will be stopped between Mechelen and Leuven because of construction work. Passengers who want to travel directly between these two stations should know about the service disruption. The NMBS recommends using the IC (InterCity) trains that run from Antwerp-Central to Hasselt and also stop at Leuven. This alternative route will help travelers reach their destination despite the interruptions on the Mechelen-Leuven line.
What construction activities are occurring between Mechelen and Muizen, and how will they affect train services?
In the Mechelen to Muizen area track and switch renewals are taking place at Muizen station. From Muizen to Hever they are working on a railway bridge over the Barebeek and replacing another bridge with a small animal tunnel while also preparing for another bridge renewal and updating the Willendriesstraat level crossing. Between Hever and Boortmeerbeek overhead lines are being renewed alongside a culvert repair in Hever. The Boortmeerbeek to Haacht section will see more overhead line renewals and in Haacht and Wespelaar track renewals are underway with the level crossing at Haacht station closed from August 23 at 10 PM to September 2 at 5 AM requiring a local detour. Further work on overhead lines is happening between Haacht and Leuven and preparatory efforts for track renewal near Hambos and Leuven are scheduled for November. These activities will involve heavy machinery and may cause some inconvenience to local residents,who have been informed in advance by Infrabel.
