Brussels public transport operator, STIB, has opened designated areas for homeless and drug-dependent persons in the Merode metro station in Etterbeek.
The measure is a response to the rising number of drug users within the station.
Enforced from Saturday for a 30-day period, with potential for it to become permanent. The decision provides for two specified areas where the homeless are permitted.
Mayor of Etterbeek, Vincent De Wolf, clarified that the focus is on keeping them out of harm’s way from the rail lines and ensuring minimum confrontation with the broader public. Needle disposal boxes will also be made available.
The first area will be at the entrance of the station off Abbé Cuypers street, and the second beside the escalators, one floor below.
The initiative will be co-ordinated with STIB, social services and the police force.
More information about how the Brussels-Capital Region as a whole is dealing with its homelessness problem can be found here.
