Story Archive

Big Mistake

Before it bought new trains for its regional lines, French train operator SNCF got station specifications from the country’s rail operator, RFF. After it ordered the trains, SNCF discovered that the specs were only for stations built in the past 30 years, but one in six stations, being at least half a century old, had less space and couldn’t accommodate the new trains: they’re too big for the stations. “We discovered the problem a little late,” said an RFF spokesman. “We are making our mea culpa.” Someone will have to make modifications to the platforms, too — 1,300 of them. Estimated cost: 50 million euros (US$68.2 million). (AC/London Guardian) ...If it doesn’t fit, you must refit.
Original Publication Date: 01 June 2014
This story is in True’s book collections, in Volume 20.

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