Brussels experienced yet another unfortunate incident involving its public transport system on January 5, 2024, when two vehicles operated by the Brussels Intercommunal Transport Company (STIB) collided at approximately 4 PM. The collision occurred at the busy intersection of Royale and Louvain streets, located near the Royal Circus and the Federal Parliament, not far from the picturesque Brussels Park.
A tram, running on the 92/93 lines toward Schaerbeek, was struck by an articulated bus, leading to a violent impact. The force of the collision was so significant it caused the tram to derail. Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as the bus collided with the facade of the Minister of the Interior's office shortly after.
Guy Sablon, the spokesperson for STIB, confirmed the details of the incident. "Il s'agit d'une collision entre un bus et un tram," he stated, clarifying the nature of the vehicles involved. Fortunately, Sablon was able to provide reassuring news, explaining, "Il y a 7 blessés, y compris les deux conducteurs. Cependant, ce sont des blessés légers." This means seven individuals were injured, including the two drivers, but their injuries were not life-threatening.
Following the collision, all seven injured parties were transported to local hospitals "par précaution," gaining necessary medical attention to rule out any serious ailments. The incident led to significant disruptions, with the tram and bus lines affected having to cease operations for several hours.
According to reports from STIB, the transport lines involved were able to resume operations around 7 PM, easing the burden on travelers who rely on these services daily. The rapid response to the situation helped mitigate the impact on the city’s busy transport schedule, though concerns about safety remained high.
It’s worth noting this incident is not the first of its kind at this location. Sablon highlighted the alarming repetition of these events, stating, "Une autre collision impliquant bus et tram de la STIB s’est produite exactement au même endroit dans la soirée du 19 décembre 2024." This reiterates the need for closer scrutiny of the area and possibly enhanced safety measures.
Images from the collision depict debris scattered across the intersection and the bus crumpled against the office building. These seemingly dramatic visuals reinforce the potential dangers associated with public transport routes crisscrossing densely populated urban areas.
Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this latest accident to determine the cause and prevent future occurrences. Observers have urged for comprehensive reviews of traffic safety protocols concerning public transport to minimize risks for both passengers and pedestrians.
Despite the chaotic afternoon, the quick reaction from medical teams and the effective handling of the situation by STIB officials ensured the safety of passengers and bystanders alike. For those injured, the hope is for swift recoveries and lessons learned to advance public transport safety standards moving forward.