Traffic disruption on the Vilvoorde outer ring bridge has caused significant delays this Friday. At around 2025-05-23 13:26:00, a loose plank was discovered in the upper section of a joint on the bridge above the Medialaan in Vilvoorde. Authorities immediately closed the right lane to ensure safety while emergency repairs are underway.
- Lat in bridge joint loosens, lane closed
- Contractor performs temporary repair until 20:00
- Half-hour traffic jam on outer ring
- Expect longer delays during evening rush hour
- Traffic may back up on E19, E40
- Traffic center advises route via Antwerp
Commuters have already experienced half an hour of congestion stretching from Zaventem to Vilvoorde. As the evening rush hour approaches, will the traffic situation worsen further? Drivers should expect longer delays not only on the outer ring but also on connecting highways such as the E19 from Mechelen and the E40 from Leuven, as well as smaller roads near Zaventem and Vilvoorde.
Given these developments, what are the best alternative routes for travellers heading west? The Flemish Traffic Centre recommends avoiding the affected area by routing through Antwerp when travelling from the east towards Ghent or the coast, although the E313 and Antwerp ring are also experiencing typical Friday traffic jams.
How should drivers prepare for this prolonged disruption? The situation highlights the vulnerability of key infrastructure during peak hours and the importance of timely communication. Consider these points:
- Temporary lane closure will last until 20:00, causing extended delays.
- Traffic jams are already forming and will likely worsen during the evening rush.
- Alternative routes via Antwerp may reduce delays but expect congestion there too.
- Smaller local roads around Zaventem and Vilvoorde could become heavily congested as drivers seek detours.
With repairs scheduled to continue through the evening, drivers are urged to plan ahead and consider public transport or flexible working hours where possible. Will this be a wake-up call for better infrastructure maintenance and traffic management? Stay tuned for updates as the situation evolves.
