Train Services Disrupted by Arson Attacks Ahead of Paris 2024 Olympics
A quarter of all Eurostar trains were canceled from Friday through the weekend due to arson attacks disrupting rail services ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics. The rail operator, which runs international services from London St Pancras, has advised customers to cancel trips where possible.
Approximately 800,000 travelers faced disruptions, with the most significant impact on services at Paris' Gare Montparnasse. Routes between Paris and Tours, and Paris and Le Mans, were particularly affected, with services halted in both directions.
French rail company SNCF reported that a fourth arson attack on a line running south was successfully foiled. Southern trains and the Gatwick Express, running to and from London Victoria station, also experienced severe disruptions until the afternoon. Additionally, the M25 motorway faced congestion due to broken-down vehicles during rush hour.
The motoring organization RAC predicts 3.2 million car journeys on UK roads this weekend, with major traffic expected at three key hotspots. Dubbed "Mad Friday," significant queues were likely to form on heavy travel day. France's transport minister attributed the cancellations to "co-ordinated malicious acts" targeting high-speed rail lines nationwide.
Passengers with pre-booked tickets will receive updates via email or text. Travelers are advised to check the SNCF apps or social media channels for the latest information on their trains. It has indicated that it is uncertain when full services will resume, with disruptions expected to last throughout the weekend. Passengers can exchange or refund their tickets, and those affected will be contacted directly.
