An endless journey… On Friday, just before 4pm, an Ouigo train connecting Paris to Toulouse collided with a vehicle at a level crossing located near Marmande (Lot-et-Garonne).There was no one inside the vehicle and the accident did not cause any injuries on board the train, but the collision caused the interruption of railway traffic for many hours.
Nearly 900 passengers, who left the capital at 12.33pm and were suppose to arrive at Toulouse station at 5.33pm,were stuck on the train,which was immobilized for five hours. After “diagnosis” and “tests” carried out by the driver, the train involved in the collision was able to continue its journey to Marmande station, where the passengers were dropped off around 9pm. They then waited almost another 2 hours to find a solution to continue the journey.
Several travelers have expressed their dissatisfaction with X, deploring the lack of information, food and solutions on board. “We got off at Marmande station 1 hour and 15 minutes ago, we are waiting in the cold and without information for a solution,” complained Anna Toumazoff, an influencer on board. “There’s not even water on board!” » shouted another passenger, while a third criticized “travelers kidnapped (…) for hours without any service”.
I’m on board a Paris-Toulouse (which should have been from 12.33pm to 5.33pm) which has been blocked since 3.45pm. It’s been 7 hours.
1200 people. Babies, elderly and still without supplies.
Deposited at Marmande station 1h15 ago, we wait in the cold and without information for a solution.— Anna Toumazoff (@AnnaToumazoff) November 29,2024
Good morning @OUIGO Train 7673 to Toulouse was wholly stopped for more than 2 hours in marmande and we were informed of an unexpected train change. What time will we arrive in Toulouse? Will you refund the entire ticket? There’s not even water on board!
— Jouvett (@jouvettga) November 29, 2024
A train left Marmande
“The SNCF regrets the situation experienced by customers between Langon and Marmande this Friday afternoon”, indicates the railway company, contacted by Le Parisien, which assures that “the SNCF Voyageurs teams, whose priority is the care of travellers, have informed customers on board the train of the progress of operations.
A train “specially prepared and stocked with containers of water and food” was finally able to leave Marmande station around 11pm in the direction of Toulouse, SNCF confirms. And he adds: “Traffic was able to resume on a single lane in both directions,allowing traffic to flow even in the evening.”
According to daily information South-westthe accident occurred at a level crossing. A motorist was involved, despite the sign announcing the arrival of the train, and managed to reverse at the last minute to avoid it. The front of the vehicle was hit. After the impact the driver managed to escape from the car,unharmed. Though, he was rescued by the firefighters in a state of shock.
What safety measures can be implemented at level crossings to prevent accidents?
Interview: The Impact of Rail Incidents – An Insight with Expert Dr. Emilie Laurent
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Dr. Laurent, adn thank you for joining us to discuss the recent incident involving the Ouigo train between paris and Toulouse.For context, can you briefly summarize what occurred?
dr. Emilie Laurent: Good afternoon! Yes, of course. On Friday, at around 4 PM, an Ouigo train collided with an unattended vehicle at a level crossing near Marmande. Fortunately, there were no injuries, but the incident caused critically important delays for nearly 900 passengers who were on board, ultimately stranding them for five hours.
Editor: it’s a relief to hear no one was hurt.However, that must have been quite an ordeal for the passengers. What are some of the immediate challenges faced in such incidents?
Dr. Laurent: Absolutely. In cases like this,the primary challenge is ensuring passenger safety and effective communication. After the train was immobilized, the driver had to perform diagnostics—this is crucial to determine the train’s condition before continuing. Additionally, coordinating with emergency services and railway operations involves considerable logistical effort to manage affected passengers and restore service.
Editor: The article mentions that after being stuck for five hours, the train was finally able to reach Marmande station. How are decisions made about when it’s safe for a train to continue its journey after an accident?
Dr. Laurent: Good question! The decision is made based on a thorough safety assessment. The train’s systems need to be checked for any potential damage, and this involves both mechanical inspections and ensuring no infrastructure has been compromised. Only when the authorities confirm that it’s safe can the train resume its journey.
Editor: The passengers had to wait an additional two hours after reaching Marmande before finding a solution to continue their trip. What kind of support is typically available for stranded passengers?
Dr. Laurent: Stranded passengers are usually provided with information about alternative travel arrangements. The rail company often assesses options such as bus services, other train routes, or providing accommodation when necessary. It’s essential that passengers receive timely updates to manage their expectations and ensure their comfort during the delays.
Editor: This incident also highlights the challenges faced at level crossings. What improvements can be made to enhance safety at these locations?
Dr. Laurent: Level crossings are indeed points of vulnerability. Enhancements can include better signage, more advanced warning systems, and physical barriers to prevent vehicles from crossing when a train is approaching. Additionally, public awareness campaigns about the responsibilities of both drivers and rail operators can substantially reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Editor: With the increase in automated vehicles and changing traffic conditions, do you foresee any changes in how we approach safety at level crossings?
Dr. Laurent: Yes, absolutely. As technology evolves, integrating smart systems that communicate between trains and vehicles can enhance safety measures significantly. As an example, having a system alerting drivers when a train is approaching could prevent such incidents. Additionally, continuous evaluation and updating of regulations is crucial as conditions change.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Laurent. It’s always engaging to delve into these incidents and the broader impact they have on safety and travel.
Dr. Laurent: Thank you for having me! It’s crucial to discuss these issues and work towards safer travel experiences for everyone.
Editor: That’s it for today’s interview. We appreciate your time, Dr. Laurent, and look forward to more discussions on improving our transportation systems in the future.