RATP—the operator of Paris’ métro, RER A-B sections and extensive bus and tram networks—issued a fresh traffic bulletin at 17:00 CEST on 28 September outlining expected impacts from Tuesday’s nationwide strike. While most métro and bus lines should run normally, RER C will operate at 75 % of usual frequency and RER D will be limited to one train in two on certain branches. Transilien R and V services operated by RATP under contract will also see only one train every 30–60 minutes at peak times. The announcement follows last week’s “pre-avis illimité” filed by the CGT-RATP union, which could escalate if ongoing wage talks stall. For now, the company emphasises that service interruptions are expected to last just 24 hours, but it encourages travellers to consult the Bonjour RATP app for real-time alerts and to consider cycling; the app is offering a €4 credit with partners Lime, Dott and Vélib’ until 30 September. Corporate mobility managers with staff transiting through suburban hubs such as Melun, Juvisy and Malesherbes should note that replacement buses are not planned. Contingency measures include reimbursing ride-share expenses or shifting morning meetings to virtual formats. Cargo operators using rail freight sidings near Gare de Lyon have been told to expect altered slot times due to shared-track prioritisation for limited passenger trains. Although the Ministry of Transport has invoked the “loi de continuité du service public”, which mandates a minimum level of operation, unions say staffing levels remain insufficient to meet timetable obligations. If negotiations falter, further strikes could coincide with France’s All Saints holiday rush in late October, posing a renewed challenge for international travellers connecting through Paris.
