A cry of warning from the unions
Unions CGT Railway workers, Unsa-Railway et Sud Rail are sounding the alarm in the face of the increasing deterioration of the 38 trains TGV Ouigoused extensively to meet the demand for low-cost travel. In a press release, they stated: “It has been more than 2 years since the condition of our Ouigo trains has deteriorated significantly. […]. There is an urgent need to act. »
The unions denounce too frequent rotations and insufficient maintenance time for these trains, older than the TGV Inouï. A glaring example is that of train 765, where axles in “poor condition” required manual intervention to remove the bolts. According to them, this situation considerably increased the risk of derailment.
Deplorable hygiene: bedbugs, cockroaches and out-of-service toilets
In addition to technical concerns, unions also point out a major hygiene problem aboard the Ouigo trains. They report cases of infestation of cockroaches and bedbugsas well as regularly blocked toilets. In November 2024, seven trains were immobilized, causing the cancellation of many journeys and leaving thousands of travelers at the dock.
The SNCF’s response: “No risk was ever taken”
Faced with these accusations, the SNCF management wanted to reassure. In a press release, it states: “The safety of travelers and agents is an absolute priority […]. No risk has ever been taken or is being taken in this matter. » However, no details were provided regarding the condition of the axles or the hygiene problems raised by the unions.
An ambition for growth despite criticism
Despite these challenges, Ouigo continues to play a key role in SNCF strategy. In 2024, Ouigo trains transported 25 million passengersor 30% of the company's high-speed traffic. With the arrival of 12 new trainsaged 15 to 20, the SNCF aims 33 million travelers per year by 2030.
