Seven people in hospital following fumes in metro stations

Both De Brouckère and Rogier metro stations in Brussels were closed for a time on Wednesday afternoon because of a foul odour, with several people becoming sick. The source of the fumes has been determined, and both stations are now back open.

The problem, according to Stib, was a product being used to make access ramps waterproof. The ramps lead to the new bicycle parking area on De Brouckère.

The problems began around 12.30. As a precaution, Stib closed several stations on lines 1 and 5, including Arts-Loi and Étangs Noirs in the direction of Gare de l’Ouest and Erasme, and between Beekkant and Arts-Loi in the direction of Stockel and Herrmann-Debroux. On lines 2 and 6, station between Arts-Loi and Elisabeth were closed.

The stations were soon opened back up again, though trains did not stop in Rogier and De Brouckère for an additional period of time. All were back open by 15.00.

Seven people who felt sick after breathing in the fumes at the two stations were taken to Saint-Jean Hospital. More on their condition has not been reported.

Photo courtesy Stib