Belgium’s Transport System in Chaos as Five-Day Rail Strike Brings Trains to a Near Standstill, What Travelers Must Know

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Belgium is experiencing widespread travel disruption as a five-day nationwide rail strike takes hold, severely affecting train services across the country. The industrial action, which began late Sunday evening, is expected to continue until Friday night, creating uncertainty for commuters, long-distance travellers, and international passengers alike.

Rail authorities confirmed that normal train operations were suspended from 10:00 pm on Sunday, with services only expected to resume at the same time on 30 January. Throughout the strike period, passengers are being advised to prepare for delays, cancellations, and altered travel plans.

Skeleton Train Services Replace Normal Operations

The national railway operator SNCB/NMBS, a government-owned entity, has confirmed that a limited timetable will be in place during the strike. Train availability depends on the number of railway employees who choose not to participate in the industrial action.

Passengers are encouraged to consult official updates through SNCB’s website and mobile application, where daily timetables are being published to reflect changing staff availability.

On Monday, approximately three-quarters of intercity (IC) trains connecting Belgium’s major cities are operating. Local and suburban services (L and S trains) are running at a reduced rate, with roughly two out of every three scheduled services in operation. Peak-hour commuter trains are particularly affected, with only a small number running throughout the day.

Further Reductions Expected as Strike Continues

Rail authorities have warned that service levels may fluctuate as the strike progresses. Forecasts indicate similar service levels on Tuesday, though further reductions are anticipated midweek.

By Wednesday, officials expect that only two-thirds of intercity trains will operate, while just half of local and suburban services are scheduled to run. Very few peak-time trains are expected during morning and evening rush hours, adding pressure on alternative transport options.

Bus and Tram Networks Also Disrupted

Travel difficulties are not limited to the rail network. In Wallonia, the regional public transport operator TEC is experiencing severe disruption after staff across its entire network joined strike action.

Government-verified announcements confirm that bus and tram services in the region are being impacted from Monday onward, with no clear timeline for full restoration. Passengers are advised to rely on TEC’s official digital platforms for real-time service updates.

Brussels Public Transport Faces Limited Impact

In Brussels, public transport services operated by STIB are expected to continue running, though minor disruptions are possible. While no formal strike has been declared for Brussels transport staff, union members have been encouraged to support a major workers’ demonstration near Brussels Central Station.

Passengers using metro, tram, and bus services in the capital are advised to remain alert for potential delays, particularly during peak hours.

International Train Services Largely Maintained

Despite the domestic disruption, most international rail connections remain operational. Government transport authorities report that high-speed services such as Eurostar and ICE trains between Brussels and Germany are largely unaffected.

However, some EuroCity routes linking Belgium with the Netherlands are experiencing partial cancellations. Services between Brussels, Rotterdam, and Amsterdam are running at reduced capacity, particularly on Monday and Tuesday, with several trains terminating earlier than usual.

Passengers travelling internationally are strongly advised to consult official SNCB international service updates before departure.

Ticket Refunds and Passenger Assistance

SNCB has confirmed that existing policies regarding ticket refunds and changes remain in effect throughout the strike. Passengers with questions about alternative travel options, compensation, or itinerary changes can contact the SNCB customer service centre for guidance.

Authorities recommend avoiding non-essential travel where possible and allowing additional time for unavoidable journeys.

Why Rail Workers Are Striking

The strike has been organised by five rail unions in protest against proposed reforms to Belgium’s public railway system. The draft legislation aims to modernise management structures at SNCB and Infrabel, including changes to employment status and labour negotiation frameworks.

Union representatives argue that ending permanent civil service appointments could weaken public transport reliability and employee protections. Concerns have also been raised about potential changes to collective bargaining rules, which unions fear may reduce their role in decision-making processes.

Union leaders have stated that the strike reflects broader concerns about working conditions, pension reforms, and the long-term future of public services in Belgium.

A Pattern of Ongoing Rail Disruption

Government data shows that Belgium experienced numerous rail strikes in 2025, including several prolonged stoppages. The current action has reignited public debate over transport reliability and labour relations within the country’s railway sector.

As the strike continues, passengers are urged to monitor official government transport channels and prepare for ongoing disruption throughout the week.