Part of Railway Lines in France May Close Due to Energy Crisis

The Grand Est region of France, located in the eastern part of the country, intends to close part of its railway lines if the state refuses to compensate for the rising costs of electricity. This was reported by the newspaper Figaro, citing the words of the regional council president, Jean Rottner.

“Starting from 2024, an additional 8 percent road charge will be levied on the regions. Here we say enough, we can no longer do this,” said Rottner before the start of a regional council meeting in Strasbourg.

He noted that such a measure will be necessary, as without any form of compensation, many regions will be forced to operate at a loss. “In other words, we will be clearly compelled to close the lines,” he added.

Previously, the Paris public transport authority began to develop measures to reduce electricity consumption in light of the energy crisis. To cut costs, authorities plan to lower the temperature in metro, bus, train, and office areas to 19 degrees Celsius. Additionally, the speed of escalators will also be reduced.