French high-speed rail network hit by sabotage, affects Olympic preparations

France's high-speed rail system, including the TGV network, suffered significant disruptions due to "malicious acts" such as arson, according to train operator SNCF.

The sabotage, which occurred just before the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics, has been described as a coordinated effort to cripple the rail infrastructure, reported AFP.

"This is a massive attack aimed at paralyzing the TGV network," SNCF stated, noting that the Atlantic, northern, and eastern lines were particularly affected. As a result, many train routes had to be canceled, causing widespread inconvenience.

Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete condemned the sabotage as an "outrageous criminal act," warning of "very serious consequences" for rail traffic throughout the weekend. SNCF CEO Jean-Pierre Farandou indicated that approximately 800,000 passengers were impacted by the disruptions. The southeastern line was spared due to a foiled attempt at sabotage.

Passengers were advised to postpone their travel plans and avoid train stations, as extensive repairs were needed. The disruptions are expected to last through the weekend, with normal service anticipated to resume by Monday, July 29.

The incidents occurred amid heightened security in Paris for the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics. The event is set to feature a parade of up to 7,500 athletes along the Seine River, with 300,000 spectators and numerous VIPs in attendance. This marks the first time the Summer Olympics will open outside the main athletics stadium, a move considered risky given the current high alert for potential terror attacks in France.

At Montparnasse station, passengers faced delays ranging from 30 minutes to nearly two hours, with some travelers unsure if they would be able to depart before Monday.