Paris: Trade unions at France’s railway operator SNCF have announced an indefinite strike that is set to disrupt train services during the crucial Christmas holiday period. The strike action, which was called on Saturday, is a response to ongoing dissatisfaction with governmental policies affecting the railway sector.
According to Anadolu Agency, the unions involved in this call to action include CGT-Cheminots, Unsa-Ferroviaire, Sud-Rail, and CFDT-Cheminots. They have collectively voiced their opposition to the government’s restructuring plans for SNCF’s freight division, SNCF Fret, and the proposed opening of regional lines to competitive entities. The indefinite strike is scheduled to commence on December 11, with additional shorter strikes planned from November 20 to 22.
This planned strike by the rail unions signals a significant escalation in industrial action that could severely impact travelers during the holiday season, raising concerns about disruptions in transport services and their economic impl
ications. The unions are leveraging this peak travel period to amplify their demands and exert pressure on governmental authorities to reconsider their strategic plans for France’s railway operations.