Train schedule back to normal after fatal accident

Rail traffic through Leuven has returned to normal following a fatal accident earlier this month, according to rail infrastructure company Infrabel. One man was killed and 27 people injured when a train leaving the station for De Panne derailed on 18 February.

“The track is again in service as planned,” a spokesperson said. “Everything can now work as normal. There remains a slight speed limit at the spot where the accident happened, but that is normal procedure.”

The accident caused damage to the tracks and overhead cables. One of the three train carriages fell on its side and Infrabel had to lay a support alongside the tracks for a heavy crane brought in to lift the fallen carriage. Traffic through the station was disrupted throughout last week.

The investigation into the cause of the accident continues. De Morgen reports the cause is likely to have been excess speed at a location known to be dangerous.

Infrabel has ruled out problems with the tracks or signals. The train had been inspected the week before the accident, according to rail authority SNCB, which is in charge of rolling stock.

Photo: Laurie Dieffembacq/BELGA