ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Saboteurs launched a coordinated attack on France’s TGV high-speed train network, creating significant disruptions just hours before the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics. This unprecedented act of vandalism targeted the country’s busiest rail lines, leading to chaos as travelers were left stranded.
Despite a massive security effort involving tens of thousands of troops and police to ensure the safety of the global sporting event, the attack managed to disrupt key connections between Paris and major cities like Lille, Bordeaux, and Strasbourg. There was also a failed attempt to target the Paris-Marseille line.
The state-owned railway operator, SNCF, reported that arsonists had damaged critical signal boxes, causing widespread delays and forcing trains to return to their starting points. Repairs are underway, but the disruptions are expected to continue at least until the end of the weekend. Travelers are being advised to postpone their trips.
Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete described the attacks as “criminal acts,” though there has been no immediate claim of responsibility or indication of any political motive. The SNCF stated that explosive devices were used to set fires at signaling installations on the Atlantic, Northern, and Eastern high-speed lines.
With around 800,000 passengers affected just before a busy weekend for French holidaymakers, the impact of these attacks is considerable. Thousands of railway staff are working to repair the damage. As the Olympics opening ceremony approaches, this incident has added to the sense of unease surrounding the global event in Paris.
