Commuter Train Service Resumes in Paris After Sabotage Incident

Paris, July 28 (UPI) – Commuter train services in and around Paris have returned to normal following a coordinated sabotage campaign that disrupted critical rail lines just hours before the opening ceremonies of the Paris Olympics. The French national rail operator, SNCF, announced that normal service would resume on Monday, alleviating concerns for the tens of thousands of commuters and approximately 800,000 travelers expected to depart the city for summer holidays. The sabotage, which involved setting fire to signal boxes and cutting cables and power lines, occurred late Thursday and early Friday, severely impacting rail operations in northern and eastern France. SNCF reported that many lines were already operating close to normal by Sunday, thanks to the relentless efforts of their staff who worked continuously since the incident. The operator confirmed that all high-speed rail services affected by the attacks had been repaired and tested successfully. France's Transport Minister, Patrice Vergriete, condemned the "coordinated malicious acts" that disrupted travel plans for many citizens. He emphasized the seriousness of the situation, which posed significant challenges for vacationers as the Olympics approached. In response to the attacks, authorities have launched an investigation and deployed extensive resources, including 40 railway police units and 50 drones, to monitor the rail network. As the investigation continues, SNCF reassured the public that there would be no further disruptions from Monday onward, allowing travelers to proceed with their plans as the Olympic festivities begin.