Netherlands, Belgium explore direct train link between Eindhoven and Brussels

The Netherlands and Belgium are looking into creating a new train route between Eindhoven and Brussels, which might involve constructing new tracks or adding an additional service on the existing rail lines, RTL reports.

The initiative is part of broader plans to strengthen rail cooperation between the two countries. Dutch State Secretary for Public Transport Thierry Aartsen and Belgian Mobility Minister Jean-Luc Crucke signed a joint declaration in Antwerp to formalize the collaboration. A spokesperson for Aartsen said the agreement is expected to result in more concrete plans by this summer.

In January, Aartsen criticized the current travel options between Eindhoven and Brussels. “If you want to go from ASML to Brussels, the most important city on our continent, it takes three and a half hours and requires about four transfers, if the train even runs,” he said.

The spokesperson added that regional authorities and rail operators are also involved in the discussions. No funding has yet been allocated for the new service.

In addition to the Eindhoven-Brussels route, the Netherlands and Belgium are examining freight connections between Ghent and Terneuzen, as well as a potential new “Iron Rhine” link from Belgium to Germany through Limburg. Officials from both countries plan to meet at least once a year to review rail developments.