According to figures from the Belgian Mobility Dashboard, motorists in Belgium spend an average of 6 minutes and 43 seconds per day stuck in traffic jams. The Belgian Mobility Dashboard’s figures are based on data from the first six months of this year. 6 minutes and 43 seconds per day equates to an annual total of 40 hours and 51 minutes spend stuck in traffic jams.
Compared with the first 6 months of 2023 Belgian motorists currently spend 6% more time stuck in traffic jams. The Belgian Enterprise Federation (VBO) says that given the economic cost incurred, urgent measures need to be taken to address the issue of traffic congestion. Time lost in traffic jams costs the Belgian economy 2.7 billion euro per annum (0.57% of GDP), an increase of 10% on a year ago.
The Belgian Mobility Dashboard is a joint venture between VBO and the automotive industry federation FEBIAC. The Dashboard aims to highlight the issue of increased congestion on our roads.
VBO’s Chief Executive Officer Pieter Timmermans told journalists that the data published by the Mobility Dashboard should encourage policy makers to continue their efforts to implement policies to relieve congestion and promote greener and multi-modal mobility. Mr Timmermans suggest the introduction of road pricing system the proceeds of which he says should be invested in improving road infrastructure and public transport.