When SNCF (French railway operator) asked RFF (the company which maintains the tracks) how far station platforms were from the rails they were given the measurement according to the current norms in force. So they ordered 2000 new regional (TER) trains at a cost of 15 billion euros. What RFF failed to point out was that 1500 stations were more than 50 years old and did not conform to the "normes". So they have been quietly cutting back the platforms to accommodate the new wider trains. Cost so far 50 million euros. French satirical weekly Le Canard Enchainee broke the news today and so far everyone concerned (except constructors Alstom) is denying responsibility and of course refusing to pay.
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