Why was there a SNCF strike on Nice-Breil-Tende line this week and are more expected?

A strike by railway staff on the popular Nice-Breil-Tende line caused disruption for both workers and tourists yesterday (August 13). 

The route, which usually sees up to eight trains run between the maritime city and village each day, saw only one train depart Nice for the hinterlands. 

Railway staff called the strike in protest at a planned 16 months of work set to start on the network from early September 2024. 

This will see all trains between Nice and Breil/Tende replaced with a bus service for the duration of the works.

In addition, the unions were protesting over the abolishment of the head of service position in Breil-Sur-Roya, which will result in a permanent closure of the station’s staffed ticket office from October 1. 

Read more: More French train stations lose their manned ticket desks

Strikes backed by passengers

In a rare act of camaraderie, the strikes were largely supported by the regular ridership, many of whom are also upset about the changes.

Since August 9, many have been campaigning for train services to remain in place along the route.

They claim the replacement bus service is inadequate, both in terms of passenger numbers and timetable, and that businesses along the route will see a significant loss of income. 

This will particularly be the case next summer, as tourists use the rail line to reach the Mercantour national park, stopping in Tende before venturing further into the mountains. 

Currently, no further strike action has been planned, however if you are planning to travel between Nice and Breil-sur-Roya/Tende, you are advised to check your travel plans as there may be disruption from the engineering works.

Read more: Strikes in France in August 2024 and how you may be impacted