A targeted act of arson caused significant disruption on southern France's rail network, with cables set on fire on the high-speed TGV line between Avignon and Lyon, leading to widespread cancellations and delays.

The sabotage, discovered on Monday morning, resulted in the entire line being blocked, with some trains diverted via slower routes, extending journey times by up to two and a half hours, while the Paris–Lyon route experienced only minor delays.

The SNCF expects normal train operations to resume by the morning of October 28, 2025, after completing repairs and infrastructure assessments.

Authorities have not identified the culprits behind the arson, which is believed to be a targeted act of vandalism rather than theft, raising ongoing concerns about railway security and infrastructure vulnerabilities.

The incident is part of a series of disruptions linked to infrastructure sabotage, including cable theft for copper resale and previous electrical failures, highlighting France’s ongoing vulnerabilities in its rail network.

Travelers are advised to reschedule their trips if possible, as tickets remain fully refundable and options for postponement are available, with the situation expected to improve soon.

SNCF has deployed additional security patrols, reassured passengers about safety, and urged travelers to check service updates amid ongoing repair efforts.

Network management teams are actively diagnosing the damage and working to restore the infrastructure, though some routes remain blocked or rerouted due to the sabotage.

While no immediate disruption to cross-border services has been reported, the incident underscores the fragility of France’s rail infrastructure, especially amid ongoing modernization efforts.

SNCF staff are overwhelmed, providing limited information and refusing boarding to some passengers without specific tickets, particularly on unannounced trains heading to Dunkerque and other destinations.

An investigation led by the local gendarmerie of Drôme is underway, with authorities suspecting deliberate sabotage, and efforts are focused on identifying and apprehending those responsible.

The sabotage was discovered in Alixan and Saint-Marcel-lès-Valence, involving fires along the track, damaged cables, vehicles, and a rail excavator, causing millions of euros in damages.

Travelers are strongly advised to postpone journeys due to ongoing disruptions and limited alternative routes, with full restoration expected by the next day.