The French high-speed rail network is gradually recovering from a series of coordinated sabotage attacks that occurred on July 26, 2024, just before the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics. The attacks, which targeted signal stations and cables along multiple high-speed lines connecting Paris to cities such as Lille, Bordeaux, and Strasbourg, caused significant disruptions affecting up to 800,000 passengers.As of July 27, the French national railway company SNCF reports that 7 out of 10 trains are running on most lines, including the Nord, Bretagne, and Sud-Ouest axes, with average delays of 1-2 hours. The eastern high-speed line has resumed normal operations as of 6:30 am on July 27. Despite the disruptions, SNCF has assured that all transportation for Olympic teams and accredited athletes will be guaranteed.The French government has launched a national investigation into the attacks, which have been described as ‘massive,’ ‘serious,’ and ‘politically motivated’. An anonymous letter claiming responsibility cited globalization and the exploitation of natural resources as motives. In response, authorities have strengthened security measures, including the deployment of 250 personnel and 50 surveillance drones to monitor vulnerable sections of the track.Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete has stated that all services should return to normal by Monday, July 29. The Paris prosecutor’s office has opened an investigation for ‘destruction of property that could harm the fundamental interests of the nation,’ which could result in criminal charges of up to 20 years in prison and hundreds of thousands of euros in fines.Despite the attack’s timing coinciding with the Olympics opening ceremony, the event proceeded as planned, with around 300,000 people in attendance. The incident has, however, raised concerns about the security of critical infrastructure during the Games.
Key points
- The French high-speed rail network is gradually recovering from coordinated sabotage attacks that occurred on July 26, 2024.
- As of July 27, 7 out of 10 trains are running on most lines with delays, while the eastern high-speed line has resumed normal operations.
- The French government expects full service restoration by Monday, July 29, and has strengthened security measures.
- An investigation has been launched, with potential criminal charges carrying up to 20 years in prison.
Contradictions👾There are slight discrepancies in the reported number of affected passengers, with some sources citing 800,000 and others mentioning 250,000.
