According to Belga Infrabel, all high-speed traffic (including TGV, Thalys, Eurostar) between France and Belgium has been interrupted in both directions since just before 11 a.m. Infrabel explained that a TGV driver reported touching a catenary cable – which supplies electricity to trains – and came to a stop. Technicians were called to the scene, but due to concerns that passing trains on the second track might worsen the damage to the catenary system, the track was quickly abandoned. The affected train, which is no longer receiving power, will be towed to Brussels-Midi. Some Thalys trains will be rerouted through the traditional Brussels-Tournai-Lille line. Infrabel is unsure how long it will take to restore service.
All high-speed traffic (TGV, Thalys, Eurostar), on the line between France and Belgium, has been interrupted, in both directions, since shortly before 11 a.m., indicated to Belga Infrabel, the manager of the infrastructure.
“A driver of a TGV coming from France reported having touched a catenary cable – which is used to supply current to trains – which was hanging and came to a standstill”, explained Frédéric Sacré from Infrabel. “A team of technicians was dispatched to the scene. Although it was considered for a time to pass the trains on the second track, the track was quickly abandoned because it was feared that this would aggravate the impact on the damaged catenary. “, he continued.
The train concerned, which is no longer supplied with electricity, will be towed towards Brussels-Midi. Some Thalys trains will be diverted by the classic Brussels-Tournai-Lille line.
Infrabel was unable to estimate the time needed to restore the network.
The interruption of high-speed traffic between France and Belgium is unfortunate, but safety must always come first. It is reassuring to know that Infrabel quickly dispatched a team of technicians to address the issue, and that alternative routes are being used to minimize inconvenience for travelers. While there may be some delays, it is important to prioritize safety and make sure that the infrastructure is fully repaired before resuming high-speed traffic. We hope that the situation is resolved as soon as possible and that travelers can continue to enjoy efficient and safe transportation between these two countries.
