Belgium’s rail network has been hit by a five-day strike this week, causing widespread disruption for passengers across the country and compounding transport difficulties already affecting other public services. The industrial action began at 2200 on Sunday evening and is due to continue until 2200 on Friday January 30, with significantly reduced services in place throughout the week.
National operator SNCB/NMBS is operating an alternative timetable based on staff availability, with services varying from day to day. Across the strike period, between two-thirds and three-quarters of InterCity (IC) trains linking Belgium’s major cities are expected to run. On Monday and Tuesday, around three out of four IC services are operating, while Wednesday sees a further reduction to roughly two out of three. Local and suburban L and S services are also running at reduced levels, with only a limited number of peak-hour P trains in operation. Passengers are advised to consult the SNCB app or website daily, as timetables are confirmed 24 hours in advance.
Refund and ticket change conditions remain unchanged during the strike period, although SNCB has encouraged passengers with specific questions or individual travel concerns to contact its customer services directly.
Disruption extends beyond the railway. In Wallonia, staff across the entire TEC bus and tram network are also on strike, with severe and potentially prolonged disruption expected. In Brussels, public transport operator STIB has warned of possible knock-on effects linked to union demonstrations in the city, despite no formal strike notice being issued.
International rail services are less severely affected. Most Eurostar, ICE, TGV INOUI and OUIGO trains are running, although several EuroCity services between Brussels, Rotterdam and Amsterdam have been cancelled or curtailed earlier in the week.
The strike has been called by five rail unions in protest against proposed railway reforms, which they argue threaten working conditions, labour protections and the long-term quality of Belgium’s public rail service.
