×
Get latest travel news
Île-de-France experienced significant commuting challenges last Friday evening, May 22, 2026, as the RER C line faced a complete shutdown. This disruption resulted from a serious power outage at the Choisy-le-Roi station, which left passengers stranded and led to evacuations on the tracks. The Transilien network confirmed that the power failure, compounded by passengers leaving their trains onto the tracks, necessitated a complete suspension of operations on one of the region’s crucial commuter routes. As a result, services were halted for the remainder of the day, causing extensive delays and cancellations.
The chaotic scene unfolded around 5:50 PM (local time), when a power failure disrupted both electrical supply and signalling systems between Choisy-le-Roi and Juvisy. Shortly thereafter, officials reported that passengers were required to disembark and walk on the tracks at Choisy-le-Roi, prompting Transilien to suspend services across the entire line “until the end of service.” With power lost and passengers on the tracks, authorities deemed it unsafe to continue operations.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Serving as a major artery through the Paris region, the RER C connects suburban communities to central Paris, facilitating vital travel to stations like Gare d’Austerlitz and Bibliothèque François-Mitterrand. This abrupt service disruption left countless travelers stranded and severely impacted tens of thousands of commuters during peak travel periods.
Transilien confirmed the total stoppage of services via its official communication channels, attributing the interruption to the power outage and the presence of passengers on the tracks. The operator implemented safety measures, advising passengers to avoid the tracks and await further instructions from staff. Transport safety protocols state that trains cannot operate under compromised power conditions or if there is any risk to the safety of passengers.
This complete halt underlines a strong priority on safety as authorities work to mitigate any further danger. Commuters were prompted to consider alternative transport options including RER A, RER B, buses, or Metro services during the outage.
The RER C’s suspension has caused widespread chaos, triggering significant delays and cancellations not only on that line but also affecting connecting services. For instance, at major hubs like Gare d’Austerlitz, long-distance SNCF trains faced delays of up to three hours as rail traffic was rerouted or halted. This disturbance particularly impacted areas traditionally serviced by the RER C, including Pontoise, Versailles, and portions of Essonne, leaving commuters with limited options to reach their destinations.
Local transport authorities have recommended that travelers consult live updates through official apps or station announcements before embarking on their journeys. Alternative transport routes have been overwhelmed as many sought other RER lines or bus services.
In light of this outage, technical teams from SNCF and Transilien were dispatched to inspect the electrical infrastructure between Choisy-le-Roi and Juvisy. Early assessments indicate that the issue is linked to a failure in the electrical supply system, although a complete evaluation is ongoing. Investigations will also explore why passengers exited their trains and embarked on the tracks before the official halt to services.
Safety remains paramount for authorities, and they have pledged to thoroughly inspect all impacted electrical equipment before services can safely resume. The complexity of the faults may necessitate extensive repair work, potentially delaying the return to regular operations.
Given the current situation, travelers are reminded to:
This incident starkly illustrates the vulnerabilities of commuter rail systems when infrastructural failures occur during peak travel times. Authorities pledge to continue providing updates as repairs progress and may announce adjusted timetables once conditions are validated safe for services to resume.
The RER C line in Île-de-France remains suspended until further notice following the reported power outage and evacuation incident at Choisy-le-Roi. Transit authorities are committed to restoring electrical systems swiftly while ensuring passenger safety. Travelers should routinely check official transport channels for updates and travel guidance.
Source: The post France Halts RER C Train Line From Choisy‑le‑Roi to Juvisy After Power Outage Forces Passengers Onto Tracks Causing Complete Commuter Disruption Across Île‑de‑France first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.
