Severe traffic disruption on E17 in Sint-Niklaas due to repairs

Sint-Niklaas (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Repair work on the E17 between Sint-Niklaas and Waasmunster caused an 8 km traffic jam on Nov 22, 2025, at around 11 a.m. Many drivers used only the left lane, ignoring the open right lane.

As VRT News reported, repair work on a concrete slab on the E17 between Sint-Niklaas and Waasmunster caused heavy traffic delays this morning, Nov 22, 2025. Authorities had warned drivers about the roadworks and possible congestion, but the situation turned out worse than expected. Many motorists used only the left lane, thinking it was the only one open, while the right lane remained largely empty. By 11 a.m., the left lane was completely blocked.

What is causing severe traffic disruption on the E17 in Sint-Niklaas?

The traffic jam stretched about 8 kilometres, with drivers reporting wait times of nearly an hour. Authorities are reminding motorists to use all open lanes at construction sites to keep traffic moving. Drivers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys and follow the posted signs carefully. 

An accident took place last night, Nov 21, 2025, at the shipyard, and road rage may have been the cause. 2 drivers reportedly got into a dispute while driving. The conflict escalated when one driver suddenly cut off the other. 

The second driver lost control and crashed violently into the median. Emergency services arrived quickly to assist the injured driver. The other driver reportedly fled the scene before authorities could intervene. 

Repair work on the E17 between Sint-Niklaas and Waasmunster is scheduled to continue until 5 a.m. on Monday, Nov 24, 2025. The roadworks have caused major traffic delays in recent days. Drivers are urged to remain cautious and follow all posted safety signs while passing through the construction zone. 

Authorities are investigating the shipyard crash to determine what happened and to hold the responsible driver accountable. Commuters are advised to allow extra travel time as the area remains affected by both the accident and the ongoing repair work.

The E17 repair work between Sint‑Niklaas and Waasmunster is part of planned summer maintenance by the Flemish road agency. The resurfacing began on 27 June 2025, targeting several stretches between Temse, Haasdonk, and Kruibeke. These works are scheduled to be done in phases, with major reconstruction carried out during off-peak hours to minimise disruption.