The after-effects of a train derailment at Neufvilles in Hainaut province are expected to cause delays on the Brussels-Mons line into next week, rail infrastructure company Infrabel said. The train was riding without passengers. The driver was taken to hospital for a check-up. She was not seriously injured.
The train derailed when switching to an accessory line running parallel to the main line. “These accessory lines are often used at low speed by empty trains just to ensure the lines don’t rust up,” said a spokesperson for Infrabel. “The accident happened as the train was switching lines, but the causes are not yet known.” The derailed train hit one of the supports for overhead cables, bringing the cables down.
Repairs, as well as transporting the train from the scene – one carriage overturned and ended up in a field – are expected to last into next week. Affected trains include those between Mons and Brussels Airport, and Quiévrain and Liege-Guillemins. The rail authority SNCB is considering re-routing trains via Ecaussinnes.
In the meantime, shuttle trains are operating on part of the line, between Soignies and Braine-le-Comte and between Jurbise and Mons.
Alan Hope
The Brussels Times
