Dec 27, 2024, 1:12 PM
Dec 27, 2024, 11:42 AM

Eurostar passengers face delays of up to an hour after train stuck in Channel Tunnel

Highlights
  • Passengers were delayed for over two hours after a Eurostar train experienced a technical issue while in the Channel Tunnel.
  • Upon resumption, the train traveled at reduced speed to Calais for passenger transfers to alternative trains heading to Paris.
  • The incident led to widespread delays in Eurostar services, affecting numerous arrivals from major cities.
Story

On December 27, 2024, a significant travel disruption occurred as a Eurostar train on the London to Paris route experienced a technical failure while traveling through the Channel Tunnel. This incident took place on one of the busiest travel days of the festive season, leading to considerable delays for passengers. Initially, the first train of the day from London St Pancras International departed at 6:01 AM but encountered problems approximately an hour into the journey, resulting in the train becoming stationary around 7:00 AM UK time. Passengers expressed their distress as they were confined to the train under uncomfortable conditions. Reports detailed that they were left without power and faced rising temperatures in the carriage, amplifying their discomfort and anxiety. After more than two hours of waiting, the train resumed moving at 9:30 AM, but it was still not at full speed. Passengers were then taken to Calais, where they were transferred to replacement trains to continue their journey to Paris. The disruption did not only affect the stranded train but also led to delays in other Eurostar services, with many arrivals from Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam running behind schedule by 30 to 60 minutes. An official statement from Eurotunnel acknowledged the situation and expressed regret for the delays. The chaos prompted frustration among passengers, with some even reporting scams emerging on social media targeting those affected by the situation. Additionally, the incident had broader implications for Eurotunnel services, as disruptions to vehicle shuttles between Folkestone and Calais were also reported, affecting drivers who faced long waits and delays. The technical failure of the Eurostar train not only posed challenges for the stranded passengers but also impacted the general flow of Eurostar operations for the day. Eurostar management assured that they were doing their best to inform passengers of updates as the circumstances developed, indicating that a recovery plan was in place to minimize further inconveniences. In summary, the combination of the high travel volume during the festive period and the unexpected technical failure created a scenario in which many travelers faced significant delays, altering their holiday travel plans and raising questions about service reliability during peak times.

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