From 1923 on there were plans for a tram line between Genk and Hasselt. The line would be important because of the several coal mines which were active in these environments. But the financial contribution of the local communities was not done, so the plans remained as plan. There were discussions of making a trolly bus line from Gent to Hasselt, but further research gave as solution to make an electric tram line. In 1933 the allowance was given, and only in 1936 the line was opened.

Financial: 19.000.000 franc (state: 9.500.000, province Limburg: 6.333.000, local communities: 3.167.000)