N72 road (Belgium)
National Route 72 | |
|---|---|
| Dutch: Nationale Weg 72 French: Route nationale 72 | |
| Route information | |
| Length | 22 km (14 mi) |
| Major junctions | |
| North end | Lommel |
| South end | Hasselt |
| Location | |
| Country | Belgium |
| Provinces | Limburg |
| Highway system | |
| |
The N72 is a national road in the Belgian province of Limburg. The route spans approximately 22 kilometres, connecting the city of Lommel in the north with Hasselt, the provincial capital, in the south.
Route description
The N72 primarily serves as a regional connector through the northern part of Limburg. Starting in the municipality of Lommel, the road travels southeast through Hechtel-Eksel, crosses Houthalen-Helchteren, and continues toward Hasselt.
Key intersections along the route include:
- Junction with the N71 in Lommel
- Intersection with the N715 in Hechtel-Eksel
- Connection to the E314 motorway via exit 30 (Houthalen)
- Southern terminus at the R71 ring road around Hasselt
The route traverses both rural and urban areas, serving commuter and local traffic. It is a two-lane road throughout most of its length, with occasional turning lanes and traffic-calming measures in urban zones.
The N72 is maintained by the Flemish Region, under the jurisdiction of the Agentschap Wegen en Verkeer (Agency for Roads and Traffic). Various improvements and maintenance projects have been conducted over the years to ensure traffic safety and reduce congestion, particularly near the E314 interchange.
History
The road was designated as N72 during the national numbering plan reforms in the mid-20th century. Since then, it has played a consistent role in facilitating regional connectivity. Recent projects have focused on upgrading pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure along parts of the road.