NMBS removes controversial cable at Antwerp-Central after vandalism

A controversial trial project by Belgian railway company NMBS at Antwerp-Central Station, designed to deter homeless individuals, loiterers, and drug users, has been abruptly halted. A steel cable, installed on a window sill as part of the initiative, was vandalized and subsequently removed by NMBS.

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We had to remove the cable because of this.

NMBS spokesperson Britt Monten confirmed the removal, stating, "We had to remove the cable because of this." She added that the trial project is technically still ongoing and the company is investigating the vandalism to determine responsibility. The decision on whether the cable will be reinstalled remains uncertain, with Monten noting it is "too early to decide."

The project had already sparked significant debate within Antwerp's political circles and among social organizations. The CAW, a social welfare organization, expressed concern that the cable would make it harder to reach and assist homeless individuals. Both Alderman Patrick Janssens and the vzw Antwerps Straatsyndicaat criticized the measure, labeling it as "hostile architecture."

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It is too early to decide.

The incident highlights the ongoing tension between public space management and the needs of vulnerable populations in urban centers. The quick destruction of the deterrent suggests a strong local opposition to the measure, forcing a premature end to the experiment and leaving the future of such deterrents at the station in doubt.

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hostile architecture