Paris: France’s high-speed rail network faced severe disruptions on Friday following a series of coordinated arson attacks, just hours before the Paris Olympics opening ceremony. The incidents, described as “malicious acts” by national train operator SNCF, affected hundreds of thousands of travellers.
The Paris prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation into what it calls a deliberate attempt to undermine national interests. These acts of sabotage targeted multiple lines, including the Atlantic, northern, and eastern routes, resulting in significant travel delays and cancellations.
“This is a massive attack aimed at paralysing the TGV network,” SNCF stated. The attacks led to the cancellation of numerous routes and diversions to alternate tracks. The southeastern line narrowly escaped disruption due to a thwarted attempt.
Prime Minister Gabriel Attal condemned the attacks, labelling them as prepared and coordinated acts of sabotage. “Our intelligence services and law enforcement are fully mobilised to find and punish the perpetrators of these criminal acts,” Attal posted on social media platform X.
The disruptions affected approximately 800,000 passengers. Eurostar services between London and Paris were also impacted, with several trains cancelled and others delayed. Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete condemned the incidents and assured the public that efforts are underway to restore normal operations.
As Paris gears up for the Olympics, security measures are at an all-time high. The opening ceremony will feature a grand parade along the Seine, involving 7,500 competitors on 85 boats, marking the first time the Summer Olympics opens outside the main stadium.
At Montparnasse train station, travellers faced delays ranging from 30 minutes to nearly two hours. Signs indicated that normal traffic is expected to resume by Monday, 29 July.
Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castera emphasised that authorities are working to minimise the impact on Olympic participants and travellers. “Playing against the Games is playing against France,” she said.
The investigation will also explore the potential involvement of an organised gang and damage to automated data processing systems. The perpetrators could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
As the city of Paris braces for one of its most significant events, the hunt for those responsible for the sabotage continues, with French security forces on high alert.
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