Belgium Rail Strike to Disrupt Train Services from February 22

The Belgian National Railway Company (NMBS/SNCB) has announced that a nationwide rail strike starting on Friday, February 22, at 22:00 will significantly disrupt train services across Belgium.

The strike, organized by rail unions OVS and ASTB, will last until Sunday, March 2, at 22:00, with severe disruptions expected on weekdays.

According to NMBS, approximately six out of ten trains will operate on Saturday, February 23, but services will decline further during the workweek as the strike intensifies. An alternative timetable will be issued daily, and passengers are urged to check the NMBS online travel planner before their journeys.

Why Are Railway Workers Striking?

The Federal Public Service (FPS) Mobility and Transport, Belgium’s national transport authority, reports that the strike is primarily in response to planned government reforms, including:
Increase in retirement age for railway workers
Proposed staff reductions in railway operations
Changes in working conditions

Union representatives argue that these reforms will negatively impact railway employees and jeopardize service quality and passenger safety.

Belgium Rail Services Affected: What Travelers Need to Know

NMBS has outlined the expected service levels for the initial phase of the strike:

Saturday, Feb. 23: Three out of five Intercity (IC) trains and local (L and S) trains will operate
Sunday, Feb. 24 to Sunday, March 2: Expect further reductions, particularly on weekday services
Travel Assistance for Reduced Mobility Passengers: Will continue despite the strike

NMBS encourages passengers to use the official train planner available on NMBS’ website to confirm service availability before traveling.

Government & Operator Response

The Belgian rail operator Infrabel, NMBS, and HR Rail (the legal employer of railway staff) have condemned the strike, calling it “irresponsible and disproportionate.” They emphasize that the 900,000 daily passengers who rely on rail transport will face serious inconvenience.

In a joint statement, they said:
“While we respect the right to protest, we deeply regret the disruption this will cause for commuters, students, and businesses across Belgium.”

More Strikes Planned Until July

Belgium’s largest rail unions, ACOD Spoor and ACV-Transcom, have also announced their participation in a nationwide general strike on March 31. Additionally, they are considering rotating strikes from March to July, which could lead to further disruptions in the coming months.

Travel Advice for Passengers

Check Train Availability Daily: Use the NMBS website or app for up-to-date timetables.
Consider Alternative Transport: Buses and trams operated by De Lijn and TEC may offer alternate routes.
Expect Crowds and Delays: Fewer trains mean longer wait times and busier carriages.
Plan for Extended Travel Times: Commuters should leave earlier than usual to account for disruptions.

Conclusion

With major disruptions expected across Belgium’s railway network, passengers should plan ahead and stay informed about real-time updates from NMBS, Infrabel, and the Belgian Ministry of Mobility. Additional rail strikes may continue in the months ahead, making public transport planning essential for travelers across the country.