Brussels – The nationwide rail strike that has severely impacted train services across Belgium is now entering its final days.
Organised by the independent railway union METISP-Protect, the week-long industrial action, which began on Sunday, March 23, at 22:00, is set to conclude on Sunday, March 30, at the same time.
The strike has significantly affected train traffic, with national rail operator SNCB/NMBS confirming that fewer trains have been running each day.
The alternative train service put in place has varied depending on staff availability, and the impact has differed from day to day. As the strike approaches its end, train conductors are set to halt work on Thursday and Friday, causing further disruptions.
Limited Train Services Continue
Despite the strike, a reduced alternative train service is being maintained. On Thursday, March 27, and Friday, March 28, the expected train operations are as follows:
- InterCity (IC) Trains: Around 70% of IC trains, which connect major cities and stop only at the biggest stations, will continue to run.
- Suburban (S) and Local (L) Trains: Approximately 66% of these trains will be in service. S trains operate at fixed times in and around major cities, while L trains stop at all stations along their routes.
- Peak (P) Trains: Very few P trains, which usually operate during morning and evening rush hours, are expected to run.
Passengers are encouraged to check the SNCB/NMBS website for detailed schedules and updates. Certain stations will see no train service at all, including Brussels-Chapelle, Buda, Calenelle, Harchies, Maubray, and Ville-Pommeroeul on both Thursday and Friday.
International Travel Also Impacted
The strike has had a ripple effect on international rail travel as well. Dutch railway operator NS confirmed that several EuroCity and EuroCity Direct trains between Brussels-Midi and Rotterdam-Central have been cancelled.
Passengers are advised to visit the NS International website to check which services have been affected.
Weekend Uncertainty Remains
While the strike is officially scheduled to end on Sunday night, March 30, further disruptions over the weekend (March 29-30) remain possible, as employees can individually decide whether to continue participating in the industrial action.
The METISP-Protect union has organised the strike to protest cost-cutting measures in the railway sector and new government policies, particularly the increase in the retirement age.
Union representatives argue that these changes undermine the working conditions and job security of railway employees, leading to their decision to take industrial action.
Passengers Urged to Plan Ahead
With the strike entering its final phase, rail users are advised to plan their journeys in advance, consider alternative modes of transport, and remain updated through official rail operator websites.
The disruptions have caused widespread inconvenience for commuters, highlighting ongoing tensions between railway unions and the government over labour conditions and pension reforms.
As the strike nears its end, passengers and transport authorities alike hope for a resolution that will restore full rail services across Belgium.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
