Just two years after its celebrated reinstatement, the overnight train connecting aurillac to Paris is experiencing a period of disruption and uncertainty. The service, a vital link for residents in the Cantal department and a symbol of renewed investment in French rail travel, has been plagued by delays and cancellations due to aging infrastructure [[2]]. Advocates are now calling on the national government to prioritize upgrades and new equipment to ensure the route’s long-term sustainability amid increasing demand for intercity rail options [[1]].
Crédit : Stéphane DAVID TOTEM
The overnight train connecting Aurillac and Paris, which was celebrated upon its return two years ago, is now facing significant operational challenges. Recent disruptions have forced a combination of bus and train travel for passengers, with some experiencing delays of up to four hours while waiting at the closed Brive-la-Gaillarde station. In some instances, the service has been canceled altogether.
Call for Government Investment
The Fer Cantal committee is raising concerns about the aging rolling stock and is urging government investment to ensure the long-term viability of the line. “You need new equipment for the overnight train. If we can’t get it immediately, we can continue to rent. SNCF is already renting locomotives, and we need to continue that in the meantime,” stated Claude Prat, the committee’s president. The resurgence of overnight rail travel reflects a broader trend toward more sustainable transportation options.
Lengthy Delivery Times Criticized
Prat also highlighted what he sees as a discrepancy in government procurement timelines. “The state has ordered more than 50 locomotives from Alstom for Ukraine, scheduled for delivery in 2027. However, locomotives for Intercités are not expected to be ready until 2030. We need to act faster,” he said. The delays underscore the challenges of modernizing France’s rail infrastructure and meeting growing demand for intercity travel.
