Belgian High Speed Line Network, Belgium
Key Data:
National Population
Approx. 10,500,000
Infrastructure Organisation
Infrabel (SNCB Group)
National Rail Operator
SNCB (Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Belges) / NMBS (Nationale Maatschappij der Belgische Spoorwegen)
High Speed Rail Operators
Eurostar
DB Fernverkehr
SNCF
Thalys
DB Fernverkehr
SNCF
Thalys
Gauge
1,435mm
Power
Main network: 3kV dc overhead supply
High-speed lines: 25kV ac overhead supply
High-speed lines: 25kV ac overhead supply
Speeds
Up to 300km/h (186mph)
Special Features:
Three arms of international high-speed lines centred on Brussels
Upgraded conventional tracks for access to HSL
Used by several different types of high-speed train
Frees capacity on 'classic' routes faced with increasing patronage
Service starts delayed by signalling/stock compatibility
Distances (HSL proper):
HSL1
71km (44 miles)
HSL2
64km (40 miles)
HSL3
42km (26 miles)
HSL4
40km (25 miles)
