Chaos on the Tracks: Eurostar Train Stranded for Nine Hours During Heatwave

In a bizarre and distressing incident, a Eurostar train experienced a catastrophic breakdown in northern France, leading to an unprecedented delay of over nine hours for what should have only been a two-hour journey. The train, which departed from Brussels at 08:52 local time, was scheduled to arrive in London at 09:57 BST but came to a halt between Lille and Calais due to a power failure. Passenger Lidia Aviles, 38, reported being trapped on board for four hours without air conditioning or functioning toilets, fostering a tense atmosphere amidst growing discomfort from the heat.

As passengers despaired in stagnant conditions, some resorted to messaging Eurostar via social media, highlighting the dire situation involving overflowing toilets and the absence of adequate updates from train officials. James Grierson, another passenger, voiced that many were suffering in the oppressive heat, as the doors were finally opened in a bid to allow for airflow after prolonged confinement.

In a light-hearted moment, UK folk band Stornoway, also caught up in the chaos, entertained fellow passengers with an impromptu performance while they waited for assistance. Around 16:00, rescue teams arrived to assist in the evacuation, providing water to passengers stranded on the platform.

After an agonizing wait for a replacement train, which was communicated as arriving by 16:45, passengers faced further delays before finally departing. Humorously, Stornoway reported that while they appreciated being given KitKats, there was still a lack of information regarding departure.

The replacement service began moving around 19:30, ultimately bringing passengers to London by 19:20 BST, resulting in a total journey time of over 11 hours. In response to this stressful experience, Eurostar has offered those affected a full cash refund or a voucher worth three times the value of their tickets while promising to conduct a full investigation into the incident.