France's High-Speed Rail Network Disrupted by Coordinated Arson Attacks

 

France’s high-speed rail network has been severely impacted by a series of coordinated arson attacks, leading to significant disruption across the country just hours before the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics.

The state-owned railway operator, SNCF, reported that arsonists targeted critical infrastructure along major lines connecting Paris to the west, north, and east of France. The attacks, which involved cutting and burning crucial cables, have led to major disruptions in service across the network.

SNCF described the incidents as a "massive attack on a large scale" aimed at paralyzing the TGV network. The damage caused is expected to result in widespread cancellations and delays, with repairs anticipated to take at least the entire weekend. The affected lines include the Atlantic, northern, and eastern routes, with one additional attack on the south-eastern line reportedly thwarted.

Jean-Pierre Farandou, head of the SNCF, expressed deep concern over the impact on travelers, particularly families affected by the disruptions. “It’s a sad day for many families who will be affected by these attacks by irresponsible cranks,” he said.

The arson attacks are expected to disrupt the travel plans of approximately 800,000 French holiday-makers over the weekend. This is one of the major departure weekends for summer holidays, making the timing of the attacks particularly damaging.

French Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete condemned the "coordinated malicious acts," describing them as "criminal actions" that would hinder many French citizens' holiday plans. Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castéra also condemned the vandalism, asserting, “It’s completely appalling. To target the games is to target France.”

The attacks come at a critical time as several Olympic events, including football matches, are scheduled in cities outside of Paris such as Nantes and Bordeaux, which are all connected by the rail network. The disruptions have left numerous passengers stranded at stations, including the busy Gare Montparnasse in Paris.

In response to the situation, additional police forces have been deployed to Paris stations to manage the large crowds and ensure public safety. The prefect in charge of Paris policing, Laurent Nuñez, confirmed that increased security measures are in place at affected stations.

At present, no group has claimed responsibility for the arson attacks. The French authorities are continuing their investigations to determine the perpetrators and the motives behind these deliberate acts of sabotage.