French rail network targeted in 'malicious acts' ahead of Paris Olympics

New Delhi: Hours before the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics, the French rail company SNCF announced that its high-speed network had been targeted by "malicious acts" aimed at paralyzing the system.

According to the BBC, several high-speed TGV lines to the west, north, and east of Paris were affected, causing significant disruptions and long queues at Paris's Gare Montparnasse station.

Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete condemned these "criminal acts," emphasizing their impact on people's holiday plans. "This is an attack on our national infrastructure during a crucial time," he stated. The disruptions have led to several train cancellations, and SNCF warned that the situation could persist "at least all weekend while repairs are conducted."

The Paris Olympics, set to run from 26 July to 11 August, will feature 10,500 athletes competing in 329 events. The Paralympics will follow from 28 August to 8 September, with 4,400 athletes participating in 549 events. A total of 206 countries will be represented at the Olympics, and 184 at the Paralympics.

BBC reported that an unprecedented security operation is in place for the Games, with organizers also addressing challenges related to the cleanliness of the Seine, costs, and the environmental impact. This security effort marks the largest peacetime deployment of security forces in French history, with up to 75,000 police, soldiers, and hired guards patrolling Paris to secure venues and events.

The opening ceremony will be a historic event, featuring competitors parading on boats along the River Seine through central Paris.

Major athletics events will be held at the Stade de France on the northern outskirts of Paris, with additional Olympic and Paralympic venues located throughout the city. T

The Pont d'Iena will host cycling events, beach volleyball will take place at the Eiffel Tower, and the marathon will start at the Hotel de Ville and end at Les Invalides.