Death of 15-Year-Old Girl Sparks Safety Improvements at Genk Station

15-Year-Old Girl's Tragic Death Sparks Safety Improvements at Genk Station

Genk (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – A tragic accident occurred at Genk station on October 24, when a 15-year-old girl was fatally struck by a De Lijn bus. In response, Mayor Wim Dries has pledged to improve pedestrian safety by implementing several changes, including redesigning parking and expanding sidewalks, with plans to complete these upgrades before summer.

The girl, who was crossing the street at the time of the accident, reportedly did not notice the approaching bus. Expressing deep sympathy for the victim’s family, Mayor Dries announced that the City of Genk, De Lijn, and NMBS would collaborate to enhance safety around the station to prevent future incidents.

Planned Safety Improvements at Genk Station

Addressing safety concerns, officials have outlined four key changes to the station area:

1. Redesigned Parking: The station’s parking zone will be restructured to reduce traffic congestion, while taxi stands will be relocated to less busy areas.

2. Wider Sidewalks: The sidewalks at the station’s entrance will be expanded, and the road between the station and bus platforms will be made narrower to improve pedestrian safety.

3. No Parking in Front of the Station: Parking directly in front of the station will be prohibited to increase space and enhance visibility for those on foot.

4. Improved Bus Area Visibility: Enhanced visibility for both drivers and pedestrians will be a priority, with clearer signs and additional zebra crossings being implemented.

These short-term changes are expected to be completed before the arrival of summer. However, a longer-term project to completely redesign the station’s square, Stationsplein, has been in development for six years. This larger initiative is planned to begin within five years after further consultations.

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