National Strike in Belgium on Monday: What to Expect

Belgium’s rail network will face major disruption on Monday, October 12, as a national union strike over the government’s budget proposals reduces train services across the country.

The socialist public-sector union ACOD has called the action, prompting national railway operator SNCB to introduce an alternative timetable based on available staff.

How Many Trains Will Run on Monday?

According to SNCB, the alternative service will include:

• IC trains: 7 out of 10 will run. These trains connect major cities.
• Local and suburban trains: About 1 in 2 L and S trains will operate.
• Peak-hour trains: Only around 1 in 5 P trains, which normally add capacity during rush hour, will run.

The strike begins at 10 p.m. on Sunday, October 11, and continues through the final train service on Monday.

What About Students?

All additional P trains scheduled for students on Sunday evening are expected to run. These services help students return to university cities, including Brussels, Leuven, Ghent, Liège and Louvain-la-Neuve.

However, services will be more limited during Monday’s morning and evening rush hours.

How to Check Your Train?

SNCB advises passengers to check their journey before leaving home. The alternative timetable is available through the railway operator’s online journey planner and mobile app from Sunday morning.

Passengers should check again before travelling, as not every train will operate as usual.

The strike is expected to affect commuters and other passengers travelling between Belgian cities. Anyone who depends on the train should plan ahead and allow extra time for their journey.