Stib tests reduced metro speeds to cut noise pollution

Brussels public transport operator Stib is experimenting with reduced speed limits on parts of the city's metro network, after local residents living near metro line 1 in Etterbeek and Woluwe-Saint-Lambert complained about noise pollution.

Stib has said that pending a definitive solution of changing the defective wheels, it will explore other options to stop the wheels or tracks grinding.

Over the next few weeks, for several nights, it will carry out tests on this line to see if reducing the train speed between Montgomery and Tomberg stations from 22.00 to 7.00 will help, said Brussels mobility minister Elke van den Brandt (Groen) at the Brussels parliament in answer to a question from Amélie Pans (MR).

Van den Brandt added that “managing the metro is complex” and that if speed reductions are implemented in the long term, the entire system will have to be reviewed.

As the impact is less significant at night, because trains run less frequently, this is the best time to test out the approach and carry out measurements, she said.

The problem is due to the wheels on the latest generation M7 metros wearing out too quickly. This causes vibrations and a lot of noise, disturbing residents particularly at night.

“Local residents are having a real ordeal night after night, and some are no longer sleeping,” Pans said. “The Tervuren-Montgomery neighbourhood committee has sounded the alarm again.”

Stib is also acting following a request from the Brussels Ombudsman to find temporary measures. These will further include seeking a supplier that can produce wheels that are 100% compliant with government requirements.