A significant fire involving a large pile of waste disrupted train services near the railway between Ghent and Brussels on 2025-08-07 22:36:00. The fire produced thick black smoke visible from afar, prompting a swift emergency response. Firefighters arrived with multiple vehicles and quickly brought the blaze under control before midday.
- Brandweer blust afvalbrand van 50 m²
- Zwarte rookpluim zichtbaar in omgeving
- Treinverkeer Gent-Brussel zwaar verstoord
- Bluswerken eindigen rond 11.15 uur
- Treinen rijden weer tussen Brussel en Gent
- Reizigers volgen updates via NMBS-kanalen
Because the fire occurred close to the main railway axis, the morning rush hour saw severe interruptions to train traffic. Trains were unable to run on the key route connecting Ghent and Brussels for some time, causing ripple effects across Brussels and eastern Belgium. Services have since resumed, though some delays remain.
How will this incident affect commuters in the coming hours? And what should travellers do to stay informed? The following fast answer provides essential details.
What does this incident reveal about railway vulnerability and emergency response in Belgium? It highlights the importance of rapid firefighting efforts to limit disruption and protect infrastructure. Key points include:
- Firefighters used a ladder, tank, and fire engine to quickly control a 50-square-metre waste fire.
- Train traffic on the main Ghent-Brussels line was halted during peak hours, affecting wider network punctuality.
- Passengers are advised to monitor station screens and NMBS digital channels for live updates.
Looking ahead, commuters should remain vigilant and plan journeys with potential delays in mind. Will Belgian rail authorities implement additional measures to prevent similar disruptions? Staying informed and flexible remains essential for smooth travel.
