Rail incident: SNCF enforces rigorous new safety measures after feline is struck on tracks
The SNCF takes action for feline-friendly trains
The SNCF has introduced a new set of guidelines for its staff to follow when a cat finds itself in an unexpected train predicament. If they spot a cat lurking on the tracks, a halt will be called, allowing the creepy little creature some precious minutes to scoot to safety.
(Photo by Thibaud Hue on Pixabay)
The rules have undergone a revamp. Prior to this, the protocol was a bit murky, but after much pondering, the SNCF has set a 20-minute timeframe for trains when a feline is blocking the tracks. That's right, if your kitty has taken a spin on the railroad in one of those freak cat accidents, they will have 20 minutes to make like a cheetah and hightail it away before the train has to roll.
But why all the fuss about felines? Well, the unfortunate death of a cat named Neko, who met its demise at Paris-Montparnasse station back in January 2023, sparked some concern about the lack of a proper protocol in place when it comes to cats on tracks. According to reports, ol' Neko didn't stand a chance against the Paris-Bordeaux train, as the company claimed the poor critter wasn't visible.
Cue outrage from cat enthusiasts everywhere
The Minster of the Interior, Gérald Darmanin, expressed his dismay over the situation, and it didn't take long before the SNCF was hauled into court for negligence, dishing out a fine of €1,000 to the cat's owners before being acquitted on appeal. It seems these events and the subsequent public outcry prompted the SNCF to careful action.
On Thursday, May 15, the SNCF distributed a memo to staff that outlined the new procedure. If a passenger alerts the SNCF about a lost kitty before departure, staff have ten minutes to scour the platform and tracks to locate the furry runaway. Once found, they'll have another ten minutes to lure the cat out of its hiding spot and into safety. If all else fails, the train will convoy forward at the pace of a leisurely stroll, allowing the cat a chance to escape at its own pace.
So, if you've got a nosey kitty who somehow wound up on the tracks, maybe focus on keeping them indoors next time, but if all else fails, rest easy knowing the SNCF is on the case and will do their best to ensure your cat makes it home in one piece.
While the SNCF takes significant steps to protect cats on trains, this newfound attention to feline safety might have a positive impact on other industries. For instance, the financial sector could take inspiration from the SNCF's pet-friendly policies and incorporate more pet-friendly benefits into employment packages, improving employee satisfaction and lifestyle. Moreover, the transportation industry might also consider implementing similar guidelines, ensuring the safety of various pets, not just cats, on their respective platforms and vehicular means.
