The Port of Brussels will reconnect its container terminal to the rail network by 30 June 2024, following an agreement with the federal and Brussels governments, Infrabel, and SFPIM Real Estate. The move aims to promote sustainability by reducing road traffic and greenhouse gas emissions. Freight transport currently accounts for 17% of the kilometers traveled in the Brussels Region, but is a major contributor to emissions. The reintroduction of rail freight is part of the region's efforts to make logistics more sustainable and improve air quality. This project is in line with regional, national, and European climate strategies.
The collaboration of several stakeholders, including the Federal Government, the Brussels-Capital Region, the Port of Brussels, Infrabel, and SFPIM Real Estate, will facilitate this important rail reconnection. The Port of Brussels, through its container terminal, will offer companies a trimodal service, combining water, rail, and road transport for their goods. Direct rail links to Belgium and the rest of Europe will promote economic development and reduce road congestion, contributing to a cleaner and more efficient transport network.
This rail project is expected to bring significant benefits to the Brussels region. Reducing the number of lorries on the roads and cutting greenhouse gas emissions will improve road safety and the quality of life for residents. The Port of Brussels aims to double the container volume transported, promoting environmental sustainability and economic prosperity.
"With the extension of the container terminal, the development of urban distribution centers, and now this rail link, we will significantly improve the supply of goods to Brussels, while reducing the number of lorries on our roads and making Brussels a more pleasant place to live. These projects are part of the regional, national, and European climate strategy," said Alain Maron, Brussels Minister for Climate Change and the Environment.
"The rail link to the Port of Brussels was stuck in a legal quagmire, which we were able to resolve in consultation with Infrabel and the Brussels Region. By renewing the rail link to the Port of Brussels, we are offering new logistical opportunities to all companies that want to reduce their carbon footprint and ease the pressure on the roads throughout the Brussels region," said Federal Minister for Mobility Georges Gilkinet, adding: "The objective is clear: we want to double the volume of goods transported by rail by 2030, and this new line will play a full part in this while ensuring the economic development of the port."
