Belgium: Railway company installs sprinklers for trees near station amid construction

The Belgian railway company NMBS has installed a new sprinkler system to water trees near the Ghent-Sint-Pieters station, responding to concerns raised by local residents. The trees are currently struggling to access groundwater due to ongoing construction work at the station.

Extensive groundwork is underway for the renovation of Ghent-Sint-Pieters station, including preparations for new platforms and an underground bicycle parking facility. These works necessitate dewatering operations, which involve artificially lowering the groundwater level to create a dry and stable environment for construction.

NMBS spokesperson Britt Monten explained that these dewatering activities are conducted under an environmental permit that includes conditions to minimize the impact on the surrounding environment, particularly the trees. However, following consultations with the data inspection authority and in response to complaints from neighborhood residents who felt the trees were not adequately protected, NMBS decided to implement an additional measure.

The new sprinkler system, featuring a pump to ensure each tree receives sufficient water, is primarily intended for the chestnut trees along Sint-Denijslaan. This system replaces a previous ground-level drip hose method. All other protective measures stipulated in the environmental permit, such as water bags around the trees, remain in effect. NMBS stated that damaged water bags have been replaced and others are refilled weekly based on on-site measurements and checks, underscoring their commitment to monitoring the trees' health throughout the construction period.