Brussels to Step Up Checks on Heavy Trucks in Tunnels Amid Frequent Violations
Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Brussels Mobility will increase checks on heavy trucks and buses entering city tunnels due to frequent violations of weight restrictions.
- In 2025, 456 vehicles over 3.5 tons were registered in tunnels, causing damage and traffic disruptions.
- Targeted controls will occur at tunnel entrances, particularly the Reyers and Annie Cordy tunnels, with a pilot project evaluation in September.
Brussels Mobility is intensifying checks on heavy trucks and buses entering the city's tunnels, as many drivers continue to ignore weight restrictions. Despite clear signage, a significant number of heavy vehicles are still using tunnels not designed for them.
The Brussels tunnels are designed for passenger cars and light vehicles, and we see that heavy trucks and buses are still driving through.
In 2025 alone, 456 vehicles exceeding 3.5 tons were recorded within the tunnels. These vehicles cause substantial damage to tunnel infrastructure, including ceilings and technical systems, and frequently become stuck, leading to severe traffic congestion. "The Brussels tunnels are designed for passenger cars and light vehicles," stated Inge Paemen of Brussels Mobility. "They cause damage to ceilings, ventilation systems, and other technical installations. They often get stuck in the tunnel, causing long traffic jams."
They cause damage to ceilings, ventilation systems, and other technical installations. They often get stuck in the tunnel, causing long traffic jams.
Brussels Mobility plans to conduct at least six targeted controls per month at tunnel entrances, focusing on the Reyers and Annie Cordy tunnels, which experience the most issues. This initiative is part of a pilot project, with an initial evaluation of its effectiveness scheduled for September. The goal is to improve safety and reduce damage within the city's tunnel network.
We are going to station our controllers at the entrances to the tunnels. If they see a truck wanting to enter the tunnel, they can stop the driver.
Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.