Train graffiti quadruples in four years

The number of cases of graffiti on train cars in Belgium has increased fourfould since 2010, to 2,175 cases in 2014. The annual cost of removing the tags increased in the same period from €1.1 million to €2.5 million, according to federal mobility minister Jacqueline Galant, responding to a parliamentary question from Vincent Van Quickenborne.

Graffiti artists often target public transport because it gives them high visibility, Galant pointed out. Belgian rail company SNCB's security department has put together a plan of action, to take effect this year, which involves collaboration with the police and improved surveillance of overnight parking areas.

"It is high time to act against this particularly costly and disruptive form of vandalism," Van Quickenborne said. "We support SNCB's action plan and hope that it will yield results in the short term and reverse the trend."

The offence is punishable by one to six months imprisonment and a fine of up to €200, plus damages.