Major Transport Strike Shakes Paris: Thousands Affected Across the City

A major transport strike has disrupted daily life across Paris, affecting thousands of commuters. Organized by multiple transport unions, the strike protests the government’s proposed pension reforms and has severely limited metro, bus, and railway services.

Strike Details and Impact

The strike began at 5 a.m. on April 1st and is expected to last at least three days. Unions demand the withdrawal of plans to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64, citing concerns for workers in physically demanding roles.

• Metro service is operating at only 20% capacity.
• Bus operations are reduced to 20% availability.
• Regional and long-distance trains have faced numerous cancellations.

Commuters are facing long waits and crowded alternatives, complicating travel throughout the city.

Effects on Society and Services

Several sectors have been impacted by the strike:

1. Local businesses in central Paris report fewer customers due to access difficulties.
2. Schools have closed temporarily as staff could not reach their workplaces.
3. Hospitals activated contingency plans to maintain critical services with reduced personnel.

Government and Response

The French Prime Minister addressed the situation, urging dialogue and negotiation to resolve the strike while reaffirming the government’s position on pension reform sustainability. Union leaders, however, continue to stand firm on their demands.

Additional Notes

• Taxi and private car services have seen a surge in demand.
• The city’s air quality slightly improved due to lower road traffic.
• Authorities increased police presence to manage crowds and maintain safety.
• No major incidents or violence have been reported.

Commuters are advised to check transport schedules regularly and consider teleworking when possible. The strike’s duration could extend beyond three days if the government and unions do not reach an agreement.

For ongoing coverage, stay tuned to Questiqa Europe News for the latest updates.

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