A large unexploded bomb from World War II was discovered near the Gare du Nord station in Paris on Friday (March 7), causing significant travel disruptions. The bomb's discovery led to the suspension of Eurostar services to London and Brussels, as well as other trains heading north from Paris. The unexploded device also prompted the closure of major roads, including the A1 highway and parts of the ring road around Paris.
The bomb-disposal operation required the mobilization of 300 police officers and caused chaos for commuters and travelers. Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot expressed relief after the successful disposal of the bomb, stating, "We’re delighted and relieved that all this has come to an end."
Travelers faced significant delays and cancellations. Eurostar services between Paris and the U.K. and Belgian capitals were canceled, affecting many passengers. Eurostar offered affected passengers free rebooking or refunds but no additional compensation.
"We're frantically on our phones trying to find out what to do," passenger Jess Sayer told the BBC. "We just tried to get a flight. All the flights are booked up so at the moment we are completely stuck in Paris with no way of getting home."
"Do we get a hotel and risk trying to get the Eurostar home tomorrow? Or look into ferries?" she wondered.
As the situation returns to normal, train services and roads are gradually reopening.