A financial audit has been launched into the cost overruns of the Regional Express Network (GEN) project, Mobility Minister Jean-Luc Crucke announced on Wednesday.
The project, which aims to establish new, fast rail connections around Brussels, has significantly exceeded its initial budget estimates. Initially, the cost was estimated at €1.4 billion. Accounting for inflation, the current expected cost should have been €2.2 billion. However, it has now risen to an estimated €3.5 billion, making it €1.3 billion over budget.
The GEN project works are being carried out by railway infrastructure manager Infrabel in collaboration with engineering company TUC RAIL.
The audit, which will be conducted by the Financial Inspection service, will thoroughly investigate the project’s costs and development.
“The GEN project is crucial for mobility around Brussels. However, such a substantial budget overrun cannot go unexplained. This audit is necessary to ensure every euro is invested wisely,” Jean-Luc Crucke emphasised.
The project aims to develop new, fast, and regular train connections around Brussels to meet the increasing demand from commuters and to ease road traffic. It is intended to facilitate commuter travel to and from Brussels with shorter travel times and improved coordination between different modes of public transport.
