Heatwave: Valérie Pécresse urges Parisians to avoid transport if possible

Valérie Pécresse, the president of the Île-de-France region, has issued a stark warning about the impact of the ongoing heatwave on public transportation. Speaking on RTL, she stated that the region's transport network will "suffer enormously" as rails cannot withstand temperatures above 50°C.

“

The rails do not support heat above 50°C.

Consequently, Parisians should anticipate service reductions and potential disruptions. Pécresse urged those with the means to avoid travel and work remotely. She also advised travelers to verify their routes and schedules before departing to prevent unnecessary trips, and to consult a map of available water fountains.

“

We must avoid traveling and teleworking if possible.

Pécresse contrasted the current situation with past policies, criticizing a previous left-wing coalition for banning air-conditioned buses ten years prior, citing fuel consumption concerns. She emphasized her administration's commitment to climate control, highlighting the purchase of decarbonized buses equipped with air conditioning and 1,600 new air-conditioned trains.

“

Ten years ago, the left-wing coalition had banned air-conditioned buses.

Regarding high schools, which fall under the region's purview, Pécresse announced an investment of 1 million euros for misting fans and ventilators to assist students during upcoming oral exams. She expressed skepticism about proposals for "climate leave," stating that essential workers, such as healthcare professionals, must remain at their posts during heatwaves.

“

We bought decarbonized buses and put air conditioning in them.