21 Dec 2022 | 10:33 AM UTC
France: Unionized train conductors to strike nationwide, Dec. 22-26 /update 1
Unionized train conductors to strike across France, 20:00 Dec. 22-08:00 Dec. 26. Rail service cancellations and disruptions.
Event
Unionized train conductors plan to strike across France, Dec. 22-26 over increased pay. The action will run 20:00 Dec. 22-08:00 Dec. 26; a similar situation could also occur over the weekend of Dec. 30-Jan. 1. SNCF, France's national rail operator, predict that overall around 25 percent of services will be canceled. The following mainline trains are expected to operate on Dec. 23:
West, South: two out of three TGVs should run
North: one out of two TGVs should run
East: three out of four TGVs will run
Nationwide: three out of four Ouigo trains are expected to operate.
The service details for Dec. 24-25 have not yet been confirmed but authorities advise that it is likely to be similar to above but slightly further degraded.
Travel delays and disruptions are inevitable over the holiday period; congestion is highly likely on the trains that do run. Expect longer queues in mainline stations as passengers exchange tickets. Protests by striking workers are not planned but cannot be ruled out, especially outside mainline railway stations.
Advice
Reconfirm the status of rail transport in France if traveling Dec. 22-26. Consider using alternative transport for time-sensitive travel. Allow extra time to reach destinations due to increased traffic congestion and demand for alternative transport.
