Rail traffic across the English Channel was abruptly halted on Thursday following an unexpected strike by rail workers, leaving passengers stranded and disrupting travel days before Christmas.
Eurostar, the high-speed passenger train that runs across the English Channel, said in a statement that 30 trains from Paris, London and Brussels had been canceled due to a “last-minute” strike by Eurotunnel. Operates railways connecting France and England.
Four trains were also interrupted and had to return to their starting points.
“Eurostar is closely monitoring the development of the situation and is kept informed of the situation by Eurotunnel,” the statement said. “While the situation is outside of Eurostar’s control, all of our teams are working to minimize the impact on our customers and provide them with the best possible support. We have additional stations at our stations to support our travellers. We also have staff.”
Eurostar said: “Due to the continued closure and uncertainty of the Channel Tunnel, we would like to urge all passengers to postpone their travels.” on social media
According to reports, LeShuttle, the rail service that transports cars and trucks through the tunnel, has also been suspended. Statement posted on social media accountscondemned “French industrial action”.
The six unions representing French rail workers at Eurotunnel said the aim of the strike was to redistribute the company’s recent profits in favor of workers.
“In recent months, all trade unions have warned management about the severe deterioration of the social situation,” the unions said in a joint statement. statement on Thursday. “This high turnout is not surprising.”
The union said meetings with management are underway.
French Transport Minister Clement Beaune said the closure of the Channel Tunnel was “unacceptable”.
“We have to find solutions quickly,” he says. wrote on social media. “We call on everyone to do their part to ensure that traffic congestion and holiday departures continue in good conditions.”
Eurostar connects Paris and London in approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. It also operates between London, Brussels and Amsterdam, but last month the airline announced that direct train services from Amsterdam to London would be discontinued for six months next year.
Eurostar said in a statement that those traveling on Friday will be updated later on Thursday about potential service changes, while affected customers will be given instructions on how to exchange their tickets for free or apply for a refund. He said he would receive information.