PARIS — Full operational capacity has been restored to the Channel Tunnel following a significant power malfunction that paralyzed cross-continental travel for an entire day. The undersea passage connecting continental Europe with the United Kingdom resumed bilateral train services on Wednesday after engineers successfully rectified an unspecified electrical fault overnight.
Eurotunnel, the tunnel’s operator, confirmed the resolution in a concise statement, noting that the technical issue within the 50-kilometer (32-mile) infrastructure had been completely addressed. While the company did not disclose the root cause of the failure, the restoration brings relief to one of Europe’s most critical transport corridors.
Eurostar, the primary passenger rail service utilizing the tunnel, announced the recommencement of its operations while cautioning passengers about potential residual disruptions. The company indicated that “knock-on impacts” from Tuesday’s extensive suspension might continue to manifest as delays and occasional cancellations throughout the day.
The interruption, which lasted several hours during a peak travel period, created widespread travel chaos during the busy year-end holiday season. Thousands of travelers found their getaway plans abruptly canceled, triggering frantic searches for alternative transportation including limited flight options and bus services. The incident highlighted the tunnel’s vulnerability and its critical role in European connectivity, raising questions about contingency planning for major infrastructure failures.