Cable Theft Disrupts Eurostar Trips for Second Consecutive Day

Disruptions to Eurostar trains between London and Paris continued on Wednesday, with more than 600 meters of cable stolen or severed in northern France, forcing the cancellation of six trips and delays to several others. The disruptions come after a similar incident on Tuesday, where two people were struck by trains near Lille Europe, causing traffic disruptions. Workers were dispatched to repair the damage, but repairs were expected to take several hours, with trains being redirected via secondary routes and travelers facing severe delays and cancellations.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 600 meters of cable were stolen or severed in northern France, disrupting Eurostar trips between London and Paris.
  • Six trips were cancelled on Wednesday, while several others were delayed.
  • Eurostar trains were redirected via secondary routes, increasing travel times.
  • The incident was the second consecutive day of disruptions, following a similar incident on Tuesday where two people were struck by trains near Lille Europe.
  • Travelers were advised to cancel or postpone their trips free of charge.
  • Around 10 high-speed train trips between Lille and the French capital were also cancelled.
  • One passenger who was supposed to travel to Marseille for a week-long cruise around the Mediterranean was forced to miss the boat's departure.

Statistics:

  • 600+ meters of cable stolen or severed
  • 6 trips cancelled on Wednesday
  • Several trips delayed
  • 10 high-speed train trips cancelled between Lille and the French capital
  • 15 workers dispatched to repair the damage
  • Several passengers forced to cancel or postpone their trips
  • 51-year-old Belgian holidaymaker Marie-Line Ponville and her daughter were forced to cancel their trip to Marseille.

Sources:

  • AFP: "Cable theft disrupts Eurostar trips between London and Paris for second day"
  • Eurostar: "Cable theft near Lille Europe, walk-in rebook or amendment available at no charge via website"