Victims of the 2016 terror attacks to ride STIB for free

Victims of the 2016 terror attacks will soon be able to use public transport in Brussels, Wallonia and Flanders free of charge.

The March 22 suicide bombings at Maelbeek metro station and the Brussels airport killed 32 people. They injured more than 300 people, all of whom will soon be able to ride STIB, SNCB, TEC and De Lijn for free.

The public transport benefit is one of a series of benefits awarded to both Belgians and non-Belgians who are granted the “national solidarity” legal status by the federal government.

Residents with the new status also get lifelong free medical treatment and a recovery pension.

Brussels lawmakers are currently transposing the federal law into regional legislation so victims of the attacks can claim their public transport benefit.

The public transport benefit for victims was one of dozens of recommendations made by the parliamentary investigative committee into the handling of the Brussels terror attacks.

In all, 502 persons who were either direct or indirect victims of the attacks have been awarded the national solidarity legal status. Victims of the Liège shooting on May 29 will also be eligible for the legal status.  

Photo: Belga / Olivier Hoslet