Antwerp governor Berx plans major train disaster exercise early next year: "Accident in Spain hits hard"

The province of Antwerp will conduct a large-scale exercise next year to test its emergency plans for railway accidents, prompted by a recent tragic train incident in Spain. Governor Cathy Berx emphasized the importance of regular drills to ensure preparedness for severe incidents. The emergency plan, developed with Infrabel and NMBS, outlines responsibilities and procedures for evacuations and safety measures for responders. Berx highlighted Belgium's advanced European Train Control System as a reassuring factor. The governor coordinates crisis management during serious accidents, activating a medical intervention plan when necessary. Antwerp has not yet experienced a major train disaster, but past incidents remind officials of the need for readiness.