Suppression of night trains to Berlin and Vienna draws criticism
The French government has decided to discontinue night train services from Paris to Berlin and Vienna, a move described as a political error, ecological abandonment, and strategic setback in a Le Monde article. This decision raises concerns about environmental impact and European relations. Critics highlight the benefits of train travel in reducing CO2 emissions.
In an article published on October 4, 2025, in Le Monde's Ideas section, the author condemns the elimination of night train lines to Berlin and Vienna as a major mistake. This decision, announced by SNCF, ends historic services that promoted sustainable travel across Europe.
The piece argues that the measure constitutes a significant ecological abandonment. Night trains help avoid polluting short-haul flights, thereby contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions. 'It is a strategic setback that weakens France's position in a Europe transitioning to green practices,' the author writes, emphasizing the importance of these connections for strengthening cultural and economic ties with Germany and Austria.
Politically, the suppression is viewed as a blunder that disregards public demand for alternatives to air travel. Environmental associations and MEPs have already responded, calling for the maintenance or revival of these services. The context includes SNCF's financial challenges, but the article stresses that European subsidies could support these lines.
This controversy arises as the European Union promotes cross-border rail infrastructure, making the French decision particularly ill-timed. Without a clear path for revision, the impacts on sustainable mobility in Europe could prove lasting.