Major Stib works near Brussels-Midi to disrupt trams for a year

Major renovation works on a tram tunnel near Brussels-Midi will disrupt several lines for more than a year.

From this week, tram services are suspended between Porte de Hal and Gare du Midi as the infrastructure is repaired. The works affect tram lines 4 and 10 in particular, but will also impact lines 51 and 81.

According to Stib, the intervention is necessary due to structural deterioration in the tunnel under Place Bara.

“Water is seeping into the concrete and the steel is corroded,” said spokesperson Laurent Vermeersch.

“If no action is taken, there is a risk of collapse on to the underlying tracks. It is essential to intervene before the structure deteriorates further.”

To accommodate the disruption, the public transport network will be significantly reorganised over the coming months.

Tram 4 will be split into two separate sections, running between Gare du Nord and Wiels on one side, and between Porte de Hal and Uccle-Stalle on the other. Tram 10 will operate only between Hôpital Militaire and Gare du Midi.

Other tram lines will also be modified. Tram 51 will terminate at Lemonnier, while tram 81 will be replaced by bus services between Marius Renard and Gare du Midi.

Several alternative routes will be reinforced to compensate. Metro lines 2 and 6 will continue to run as normal between Porte de Hal and Gare du Midi, providing the main connection through the affected area.

Bus services will also be adapted. Line 37 will be extended to Brussels-Midi, while lines 48 and 50 will connect key stops and run more frequently.

A replacement bus service will operate on certain disrupted sections, and additional tram and train options, including tram 82 and the S1 rail line, will offer alternatives for passengers travelling to and from the south of the city.

Passengers are also advised that the distance between Porte de Hal and Gare du Midi can be covered on foot in less than 10 minutes.

The disruption is expected to last until spring 2027.