Just hours before the Opening Ceremonies of the 2024 Paris Olympics, France's major rail system has been hit by a series of attacks, including arson and damaged cables, causing widespread disruptions and affecting approximately 800,000 travelers.
On the eve of the 2024 Paris Olympics, the French rail system has been targeted by a coordinated attack, paralyzing high-speed lines and affecting hundreds of thousands of travelers.
The state-owned rail line, Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF), announced on Friday morning that a "massive attack aimed at paralyzing the high-speed line network" had led to numerous train diversions and cancellations.
Massive Attack on French Rail System Disrupts 2024 Paris Olympics
SNCF CEO Jean-Pierre Farandou revealed that the attacks involved arson and deliberate cable damage, leaving the rail system severely compromised. The affected railway lines include the Atlantic, North, and East lines.
"This is an attack on France," Farandou declared, emphasizing the premeditated and coordinated nature of the incidents. He stressed that the damaged safety cables would require extensive repairs and testing, raising concerns about the safety of train services.
Massive Attack on French Rail System Disrupts 2024 Paris Olympics
With the capital city preparing to welcome a surge of spectators for the Olympic Games, the attack has created logistical challenges and raised security concerns. The disrupted rail service is expected to impact the movement of both domestic travelers and international visitors.
SNCF has urged travelers to postpone their journeys and avoid railway stations. They will be contacted via email or SMS regarding alternative arrangements. The rail line has also requested their cooperation in minimizing disruption during the busy Olympic period.
Massive Attack on French Rail System Disrupts 2024 Paris Olympics
French sports minister Amélie Oudéa-Castera has assured that Olympic organizers are committed to "ensuring the proper transport of all delegations to the competition sites."
The Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics will be held on the Seine River, marking the first time an Olympic opening has taken place outside a stadium setting. There have been no reports of injuries terkait to the attack on the rail system.
The motive behind the attack remains unknown, and the authorities are actively investigating the incident. However, the timing and coordination of the attacks suggest a deliberate attempt to disrupt the smooth running of the Olympic Games.
The attack has cast a shadow over the Olympic festivities, highlighting the challenges of securing major sporting events in an era of heightened security concerns. The resilience of the French authorities and the cooperation of the public will be crucial in ensuring a successful and safe Olympics.
