Christmas Eve turns into a nightmare for many TGV passengers. A personal accident in Seine-et-Marne causes significant delays on the South-East lines. Stuck travelers express their dismay as SNCF teams try to restore traffic as quickly as possible…
On this Christmas Eve evening, consternation reigns in the stations served by the TGV Sud-Est. A personal accident that occurred in Seine-et-Marne shortly before 10 p.m. completely disrupted the plans of hundreds of travelers who hoped to join their loved ones for the holidays.
Around ten TGVs impacted, delays of one hour
According to information provided by SNCF, the incident caused the interruption of traffic on the high-speed line crossing the south of Seine-et-Marne. No less than ten TGVs found themselves blocked, quickly accumulating delays of around an hour. If the trains will eventually arrive at their destination, it is a real blow for passengers on this festive evening.
Travelers express their dismay
On the platforms of the stations concerned, the atmosphere is heavy. Suitcases in hand, many travelers wait, worried and frustrated. Some do not hesitate to express their dissatisfaction:
This is unacceptable! We are told of delays but without further explanation. I have my family waiting for me for New Year's Eve, the little ones getting impatient under the tree. All because of an incident we know nothing about.
Testimony from a passenger at Melun station
While most show resignation, the annoyance is palpable. Everyone scrutinizes the slightest movement of the SNCF agents, in the hope of obtaining reassuring information.
SNCF mobilized to restore traffic
Faced with this crisis situation, the SNCF sent teams to the site to allow traffic to resume as quickly as possible. The immobilized trains are gradually routed via conventional lines, bypassing the incident area. If delays are unavoidable, every effort is made to limit their extent.
When questioned, the railway company is refusing for the moment to make any comment on the exact circumstances of the accident, contenting itself with mentioning “an incident involving a person” without further details out of respect for the people involved and while awaiting the conclusions of the investigation which will be carried out.
The hope of a quick return to normal
Despite these last minute disruptions, the SNCF is optimistic and is counting on a complete restoration of traffic overnight. Little consolation for travelers who will have to wait a little longer before being able to reunite with their loved ones and celebrate Christmas as it should be.
This incident once again reminds us of the fragility of rail traffic and its direct impact on the lives of thousands of people, highlighting in passing the crucial work of the SNCF teams responsible for ensuring the continuity of the service, including during the most symbolic moments. like Christmas Eve.
