Travel chaos is sweeping across Belgium as a nine-day nationwide train strike kicks off today, with significant disruptions expected across the country.
The strike, which started on Friday, February 21 at 10 p.m., will run until 10 p.m. on March 2. During this period, most train services will be severely limited, affecting major cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Bruges.
The Belgian National Railway Company (SNCB) has acknowledged the impact of the strike, stating, “We understand and regret that this strike may interfere with your travels” and that they will try to provide alternative services based on available staff. However, with most SNCB workers and those at rail infrastructure companies Infrabel and HR-Rail joining the strike, the country’s rail network could be nearly paralyzed.
International train services, including Eurostar, TGV INOUI, EuroCity, EuroCity Direct, ICE, and OUIGO, are expected to continue running as scheduled, with updates available on the SNCB International website. Travellers planning to use local cross-border connections, such as those to/from Lille, Luxembourg, and Aachen, are advised to check for alternative routes.
In addition to the rail strike, airport workers will strike on the 13th of every month until further notice, further complicating travel plans. The strikes are part of broader unrest over government policies, including pension reforms, labor law changes, and budget cuts to SNCB. Protests continue across Belgium, with an estimated 50,000 people marching in Brussels this week.
The strikes are a response to the federal government’s agenda, which many union members and citizens oppose. A general strike has also been planned for March 31, adding to the uncertainty for travelers. While negotiations with unions are ongoing, tensions remain high, particularly over concerns about public services, unemployment benefits, and pension changes.
Belgium’s rail and public transport systems are expected to face major disruptions in the coming weeks, so travelers are advised to reconsider their plans or seek alternative transport options.
