N-VA calls for a major overhaul of the rail system

Rail passengers in Belgium still too often face delays, missed connections, and a confusing service offering. That is why MP Dorien Cuylaerts has introduced a resolution calling for a thorough reform of the rail network, with the aim of creating a simpler and better coordinated system. “For many people, the train is not a logical alternative to the car today. Missed connections, long waiting times, or having to search for the right route discourage passengers. It needs to become simpler and more reliable,” says Dorien Cuylaerts.

A more logically organised rail network

At the heart of the proposal is a different way of organising the rail network. Currently, it is structured like a star, with Brussels at its centre. As a result, a single disruption can quickly affect the entire country. The resolution proposes replacing this model with a network built around strong hubs spread across the country, where train services are better coordinated.

In cities such as Antwerp, Ghent, and Liège, trains would arrive as much as possible at the same time and depart together, allowing passengers to transfer smoothly without long waiting times. “Today, the system depends too heavily on Brussels. One issue there, and the whole country feels it. By working with strong hubs, we can make the system simpler, more robust, and more user-friendly,” Cuylaerts explains.

Clear and regular timetables

The new structure would also introduce fixed and easy-to-understand timetables. Trains would run at regular intervals—every fifteen or thirty minutes, for example—so passengers no longer need to plan their journey from scratch each time. “Passengers shouldn’t have to check their train times every day. It should become second nature. Public transport needs to be logical and predictable,” says Dorien Cuylaerts.

One integrated public transport system

Another key element of the proposal is improved coordination between trains, buses, trams, and metros. At present, these services are not sufficiently aligned, leading to lost time and missed connections. Better integration would make journeys far smoother. “Too often, operators still work alongside each other instead of together, while passengers simply want to get from door to door. Public transport should function as one coherent system, not as a collection of disconnected pieces,” Cuylaerts adds.

A clear plan with concrete steps

The resolution calls on the government to quickly develop a concrete plan, based on a recent feasibility study conducted by the Federal Public Service Mobility. This plan should lead to a phased implementation in the coming years. In the long run, the goal is a fully integrated public transport system across Belgium. Countries such as Switzerland show that this approach works. There, trains run on fixed schedules and different modes of transport connect seamlessly. “The good news is that we don’t have to reinvent the wheel. In countries like Switzerland, this system has been working for years. It is entirely possible to build a simpler and more reliable system here as well,” Cuylaerts concludes.