Train strike hits French commuters

PARIS, France -- Commuters have faced a day of travel chaos as French transport unions went on strike over rail privatisation fears.

Rail workers' unions, including the powerful CGT, joined the strike that seriously effected services across the country.

The strike coincided with key talks between unions and the SNCF state railway company on a restructuring plan and pay and staffing levels.

Unions fear the restructuring plan, which the CGT wants to prevent, is a covert first step towards privatisation.

The strike caused chaos for commuters in the Paris area with fewer than one-third of suburban trains were running. Marseille, Lyon and Lille also saw significant disruption.

The Paris metro was not affected but all major roads leading to the capital were jam-packed during Thursday's morning rush hour.

The official road traffic monitoring service reported tailbacks of up to 17 km (10 miles) on inbound roads, and 40 km (25 miles) of traffic jam on the Paris ring road.

High-speed TGV train services between major cities were also affected, with no trains at all running between Paris and Lyon.

Eurostar rail links between Paris and London were disrupted and trains to Brussels were down to half their usual number. The company offered a full refund to travellers for the next two days.

The SNCF warned of further disruption but added all trains to Alpine skiing resorts would be back on schedule in time for the start of the French school holidays on Friday.

SNCF president Louis Gallois has staunchly defended the company's position.

He denied privatisation was on the cards for SNCF and rejected accusations that the plan would compromise the company's unity or harm workers.

Reuters contributed to this report.

European rail strike leaves frustrated commuters stranded
November 23, 1998

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