Brussels transport authority MIVB has adapted its existing rules around riding public transport, adding some stricter measures and clarifying others. The goal is to improve safety and the public transport experience for all passengers.
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No more drinking on Brussels public transport: MIVB increases measures to improve safety
Lisa Bradshaw
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Brussels authorities have approved MIVB’s new regulations, which apply to all forms of public transport – buses, metros and trams. While most of the regulations have been made more clear, some have been made more strict.
Passengers are, for instance, no longer allowed to drink alcohol or use illegal drugs while riding public transport. Previously the regulation stated that passengers should not be visibly intoxicated.
References to “pubic nuisance” and “disorderly conduct” have also been clarified with specifics, such as passengers cannot take up more than one seat, cannot engage in aggressive panhandling and cannot block doors or escalators.
They are a tool to prevent incidents … but they are also legislatively enforceable
MIVB CEO Brieuc de Meeûs
The regulation on unwanted physical contact has been expanded to include “undesirable behaviour with a sexual connotation that is expressed physically, verbally or non-verbally and the purpose of which is to undermine the dignity of a person, creating an intimidating, hostile, insulting, humiliating or offensive environment.”
MIVB has also clarified the section on objects that could pose a nuisance or a danger to passengers and remind passengers to put their bags or backpacks on the ground if they could injure a passerby.
Offenders risk fines
“Respecting the rules is essential, not only for your own safety but for that of others,” says MIVB CEO Brieuc de Meeûs. “The new rules clarify good and bad behaviour. They are a tool to prevent incidents and promote a nicer atmosphere. But they are also legislatively enforceable.”
Brussels authorities also allow MIVB employees to hand out fines for not following the regulations on public transport but also in stations and within 15 meters of any MIVB infrastructure.
MIVB’s transport rules can be found here. The updated regulations will go into force this summer.