Discovery Near Tracks Causes Major Delays
Train services at Paris’ busiest station, Gare du Nord, faced disruptions on Friday morning. Workers found an unexploded World War II bomb near the tracks, causing immediate safety concerns.
French national railway company Transport Express Regional (TER) confirmed the discovery on X. “An unexploded bomb from the Second World War was discovered near the tracks,” TER stated.
Train Cancellations and Delays
Authorities quickly halted train operations at the station. The discovery affected local metro lines, national trains, and international routes. Eurostar services, which connect Paris with London and Brussels, also faced cancellations.
According to Eurostar’s website, at least three scheduled departures from Gare du Nord were cancelled. Many other trains experienced significant delays. Passengers found themselves stranded, waiting for further updates.
Authorities Work to Remove the Bomb
Police and bomb disposal experts arrived at the scene to assess the situation. Their priority was to remove the device safely while minimizing risks to passengers and workers. Security teams cordoned off the affected area, restricting access.
Authorities have not provided a timeline for when operations will return to normal. Until the bomb is secured, delays and cancellations will continue.
Historical Context: WWII Bombs in Europe
Unexploded ordnance from World War II still poses risks across Europe. During the war, heavy bombing campaigns left thousands of undetonated explosives underground. Construction projects and railway maintenance frequently uncover these hidden dangers.
Paris is no stranger to such discoveries. Similar incidents have occurred in the past, requiring evacuations and safety measures. Despite decades of peace, remnants of the war continue to affect daily life.
Passenger Frustration and Safety Concerns
Commuters at Gare du Nord expressed frustration over the delays. Many had to reschedule plans, while others scrambled to find alternative transport. However, most understood the need for caution and security.
“I was supposed to take the Eurostar to London this morning,” said a stranded passenger. “Now I don’t know when I’ll get there.”
Authorities have urged passengers to check travel updates before heading to the station. They also advised against unnecessary travel in the affected areas.
The World War II bomb discovery at Gare du Nord serves as a reminder of history’s lingering impact. While authorities work to remove the device, train disruptions will continue. Passengers should stay informed and expect delays until normal operations resume.
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