Belgium has achieved a major milestone in the modernisation of its rail network. Infrastructure manager Infrabel and the consortium consisting of Siemens Mobility and Equans have announced network-wide implementation of ETCS.
The European Train Control System (ETCS) is a train protection system intended to replace the various incompatible systems currently used by the various European rail networks. It functions as the signalling and control component within the overarching European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS).
ETCS is composed of two primary elements: Trackside equipment and on-board equipment.
The entire Belgian rail network of 6,400 kilometres is now covered by ETCS, according to the Chief Operating Officer of Infrabel, Jochen Bultinck. The COO adds that 92% of each driven train-kilometre is currently covered by the system.
The ETCS implementation project started in 2015, and was completed exactly a decade later. Of the 6,400 kilometres of the Belgian rail network, the project saw 2,274 kilometres upgraded to ETCS level 2.
Siemens Mobility explains that the project delivered significant improvements in operational efficiency and seamless cross-border train operations thanks to the integration of advanced interlockings and by enabling continuous digital communication.
An example for Europe
“Belgium is the first country to implement ETCS across a highly complex network under rolling conditions with almost no closures – setting the example Europe must follow”, comments Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility.
“The on-time completion and commissioning of this project, exactly ten years after its start, reflects the strength of our partnership with Infrabel and the consortium’s unwavering commitment. With much of Belgium’s rail network now running on ETCS Level 2, our proven signaling technology delivers the highest safety standards and a more efficient, future-ready rail system for the entire country.”
Like in other European countries, Belgium’s railway network previously operated on older systems. That hindered reliability, efficiency, and cross-border compatibility. Europe-wide implementation of ETCS (and the broader ERTMS framework) should increase the level of interoperability among European countries and make international traffic more efficient.