Channel Tunnel power failure causes chaos for Eurostar and Eurotunnel – The Mirror
Need to know
Passengers have been told not to travel by Eurostar today
Everything you need to know as Eurostar services and Eurotunnel Le Shuttle services hit with delays and cancellations
Severe Travel Disruptions: Major power issues with the overhead supply in the Channel Tunnel have caused widespread travel chaos today. Both Eurostar and Le Shuttle services are experiencing significant delays and last-minute cancellations.
“Do Not Travel” Advice: Eurostar and National Rail are strongly advising all passengers to postpone their journeys to a later date. They have warned travellers not to come to the stations unless absolutely necessary.
Stranded Passengers: Some travellers have been trapped inside the tunnel for over four hours due to the power outage. Additionally, a Le Shuttle train reportedly failed inside the tunnel, further complicating the recovery efforts.
Significant Delays at Terminals: Le Shuttle, which transports vehicles, is reporting delays of approximately three and a half hours at the Folkestone terminal. On the French side in Calais, wait times are currently estimated at around two hours.
Widespread Cancellations: Multiple afternoon and evening services between London St Pancras and Paris Gare du Nord have already been officially cancelled. Officials warn that more cancellations are likely as the power issues persist.
Ongoing Repairs: Engineers are currently working to resolve the overhead power supply fault, though no specific timeline for a full return to service has been provided. Passengers are encouraged to check live train status updates before attempting to travel.
Compensation for Eurostar and Le Shutle passengers: For both Eurostar services and Le Shuttle passengers can claim compensation if they are delayed over one hour.
Passengers delayed 60-119 minutes can claim 30% of their ticket price as a voucher or 25% as cash refund.
Passengers delayed 120-179 minutes can claim 60% of ticket price as a voucher or 50% as cash refund.
Passengers delayed over 180minutes can claim 75% of the ticket price as a voucher or 50% as a cash refund.
Alternatively if the service is cancelled or delayed over an hour passengers can exchange their ticker for another date or request a refund with Eurostar.
Eurotunnel Le Shuttle passengers maybe entitled to a voucher as compensation for delays over an hour and are urged to contact the customer service team.
Follow our live blog for the latest updates: Eurostar delays LIVE: Passengers warned ‘do not travel’ as trains stuck in tunnel
