Belgium: Additional rail strikes planned July 10 through July 14 /update 2

Event

Two rail unions - Independent Rail Staff Union (OVS) and Autonomous Train Drivers' Union (ASTB) - have each issued a notice for 48-hour strikes to occur consecutively beginning at 03:00 (local time) on July 10 and lasting through 03:00 on July 14. A reconciliation meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, July 3, between the unions and Belgian Rail, the country's national train operator. Unless averted, the strikes are expected to cause delays, modified timetables, last-minute cancelations, and overcrowding on trains. Increased road congestion in urban areas is also likely during this period as travelers seek out alternative means of transportation.

Context

Belgian Rail is currently operating on a reduced service schedule due to a strike by another union that began on Thursday, June 28, and is set to last through 22:00 on Saturday, June 30.

Advice

Individuals in Belgium are advised to confirm the status of their trains and to allow for extra time to reach their destinations.