In brief
Passengers on Eurostar trains faced severe disruption due to a power outage in the Channel Tunnel, leading to overnight delays and uncertainty about their travels. Eurostar is attempting to resume services but warns of potential ongoing cancellations and delays.
Eurostar passengers are braced for further possible disruption as a recent power outage in the Channel Tunnel caused significant travel chaos on Tuesday. As many scrambled to reach New Year's Eve celebrations, numerous travelers were stuck on trains for more than six hours overnight, with some reporting they were stranded at the tunnel entrance.One passenger recalled boarding the 19:01 service to Paris but remained stuck as of 03:00 GMT, expressing concern about whether they would proceed to Paris or be returned to London. Eurostar announced plans to resume services on Wednesday, but passengers were warned there might still be delays or cancellations.The chaos started with problems in the overhead power supply, compounded by a broken-down LeShuttle train that blocked routes, leading to cancellations of at least a dozen services by midday on Tuesday. The situation drew wide attention on social media, showing massive crowds at London St Pancras International station as frustrated travelers attempted to adjust their plans.Eurostar is advising customers to check live updates on their service status and offered passengers options to rearrange journeys without additional charges. While some trains resumed service Tuesday evening, only one of the two rail lines in the tunnel was operational.This disruption has left many families separated, with passengers like Dennis van der Steen sharing experiences of being stuck for hours with crew members providing limited information. As Eurostar works to address the ongoing situation, travelers are anxiously awaiting clarity on their New Year plans.
