‘Coordinated’ Arson Paralyzes France’s High-Speed Rail Pre-Olympics
France’s high-speed rail network was crippled by widespread acts of vandalism, including arson attacks, on Friday, just hours before the Olympic Games’ opening ceremony. Officials described these acts as “criminal” and are investigating potential links to the Olympics.
The disruptions are expected to affect around 250,000 travelers throughout the weekend. Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete confirmed that incendiary devices were discovered, labeling the fires as deliberate criminal actions.
The attacks halted several high-speed lines, severely impacting Paris’ Montparnasse station. Videos on social media showed the station overwhelmed with stranded passengers. Paris police focused their efforts on train stations after the “massive attack” paralyzed the TGV network.
Three fires were reported near the high-speed lines of Atlantique, Nord, and Est, amid heightened security measures for the Olympics. Passengers faced significant delays, particularly on services to northern France, Belgium, and the UK. At Gare du Nord, one of Europe’s busiest stations, many passengers sought information and solutions.
Government officials condemned the acts but did not find any immediate links to the Olympics. Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castera emphasized efforts to ensure transportation for athletes and delegations, stating, “Playing against the Games is playing against France.”
Travelers at London’s St. Pancras station were warned of delays. SNCF, the French national rail company, anticipated disruptions lasting through the weekend and advised passengers to postpone their journeys, offering ticket exchanges and refunds.
Valerie Pecresse, president of the greater Paris region, estimated that 250,000 travelers would be affected. While substitution plans were in place, she recommended avoiding stations.
The attacks occurred as Paris prepared for the Olympics’ grand opening ceremony, featuring 7,000 athletes sailing down the Seine past landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Museum.
Re-reported from the article originally published in NEWYORK POST.
