East Flanders, Belgium – A strike impacting De Lijn, the Flemish public transport company, significantly disrupted service in the province of East Flanders on Friday, March 20, 2026. Approximately 30% of buses and trams were not operating due to the work stoppage, as union members protest planned budget cuts.
The industrial action is part of a week-long series of regional strikes across Flanders, with each province taking its turn to demonstrate against the proposed €35 million in savings. These cuts are expected to impact route schedules throughout East Flanders, according to reports.
De Lijn has published an alternative service schedule on its website and app, displaying only the routes expected to run. But, the company cautions that unexpected circumstances could lead to further cancellations. The company anticipates that 70% of buses and trams will be operational across the entire province, with service levels in the Waasland region reduced to 57%.
Passengers are advised to consult the app or website before traveling. De Lijn is offering letters of attestation to those who arrive late to school or work as a result of the disruptions. The ongoing labor dispute highlights the challenges facing public transportation providers as they navigate budgetary pressures and maintain service levels.
Union representatives have characterized the government’s austerity measures as a “death blow to a squeezed lemon,” signaling deep dissatisfaction with the proposed cuts. The ACV union even provided coffee and pastries to drivers participating in the strike, framing the situation as a significant blow to the region.
Even as evening routes in the Midwest region were initially threatened, reports indicate they may be maintained despite the broader strike action.
