Occitanie: Massive train development planned from 2023 to 2032

The transportation offer in the Occitanie region will expand in the coming years thanks to an agreement signed between SNCF and the region.

This is an ambitious goal set by the Occitanie region for the next ten years: 100,000 travelers per day on its regional lines. To achieve this, the region is investing more than 4 billion euros in an agreement signed with SNCF by 2032.

The region aims to offer more eco-friendly trains that run more frequently. Additionally, it wants to keep current low prices. The 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from trains and the improvement of accessibility for residents are two reasons for this financial investment.

Furthermore, it will impose stricter penalties than before in case of delays on SNCF. An advantage in case of strikes for rail travelers! Occitanie thus hopes to see many more people traveling on its liO lines. To this end, the region is committing €540 million, which will be used to develop its rolling stock during the period from 2023 to 2032.

What commitments have SNCF and the Occitanie Region made?

Three main ideas stand out from this agreement: more trains, lower-cost fares, and increased punctuality. A significant challenge for SNCF, which experiences numerous cancellations and delays each year.

Rather than investing in private railway companies, the Occitanie region chose to trust SNCF. This partnership will bring about the following changes on the regional lines:

• 110 additional trains per day;
• 51,000 extra seats daily on trains;
• 1,500 additional trains maintained annually, and 33,000 trains on time each year;
• The creation of a new train maintenance center in Narbonne.

One of the headline announcements of this agreement between SNCF and the Occitanie region is maintaining current fares as they are. For certain groups, such as young people and seniors, the region offers discounted or €1 fares.

Punctuality will be a priority for SNCF, which can face financial penalties if delays accumulate. This measure was already included in the previous agreement between the two parties, but the region has obtained an additional amendment to its contract. If there are national disruptions affecting regional train operations, SNCF will be held responsible.

The French railway operator states that 11,000 jobs will be created through this agreement, and five old train lines will be modernized.

So many good news for residents of the South-West!

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