Brussels attacks: Belgian capital's transport network in lockdown

Aftermath: Tiles fell from the ceiling near check-in desks
PA Wire
Laura Proto23 March 2016

Brussels’ transport network is in lockdown following the ISIS attacks which killed at least 34 people on Tuesday.

The city’s main airport, where two explosions in the departure hall killed 14 people, is expected to remain closed throughout Thursday.

Pictures from the aftermath of the explosion showed shattered glass, debris and ceiling tiles littering the terminal building.

In a statement, the airport said: “Brussels Airport extends its deepest sympathy to the friends and relatives of the victims of the explosions in the departure hall on Tuesday.

“Following these attacks, there will be no passenger flights into and out of Brussels Airport today and tomorrow Thursday 24 March.

Broken windows seen at the scene of explosions at Zaventem airport near Brussels
Reuters / Francois Lenoir

“Because the forensic investigation is still underway, we currently have no access to the building. Until we can assess the damage, it remains unclear when we can resume operations.”

Passengers who are scheduled to fly from Brussels Airport on Wednesday or Thursday are urged to contact their airline for further instructions.

Meanwhile on the city’s metro network, passengers had their bags checked by armed soldiers at street level before they were allowed to enter train stations.

Searched: Armed soldiers outside De Brouckere metro station on Thursday
REUTERS/Francois Lenoir

Eurostar services to and from Brussels on Tuesday were suspended in the wake of the attacks, but resumed normal service on Wednesday.

A statement on Eurostar’s website said: “We are operating a normal service today however we do ask that all passengers travelling allow one hour to check in due to enhanced security checks at the stations.”

Customers who do not want to travel to or from Brussels are able to change their booking for free within 60 days or claim a refund.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) urged British visitors to Belgium to “remain vigilant and follow the instructions of the Belgian authorities” following the explosions at Zaventem International Airport and Maalbeek station.

Travel advice on the FCO website states: “The Belgian threat level is Level 4 – a serious and imminent threat.

“You should remain alert and vigilant, stay away from crowded places, and follow the instructions of the Belgian authorities.

“There have been a number of police raids and arrests in the Brussels region and other Belgian cities in recent weeks.

“Belgian security operations are likely to be carried out at short notice. If you’re in an affected area you should follow the instructions of the Belgian security authorities.

“Police have asked the public not to comment on police operations on social media.”

Anyone who is concerned about family or friends in Brussels can contact the FCO's helpline on 020 7008 0000.

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