The French government and regions are among the biggest supporters of railways in western Europe, to the tune of 220 euros for each resident. Switzerland is well ahead on 500 euros, the UK down the list with 130 euros. The figures are in a study by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) which was attempting to find if there was any correlation between state subsidy and efficiency. They conclude that in general the more spent, the more effective the rail networks are. In a time when both here in France there is controversy over the LGV (high speed lines) costs and in the UK over HS2 it is useful to have such a study. We are all dependent on and committed to our cars, but do we want more motorways and traffic jams with the consequent pollution; or more frequent cheap flights between cities demanding airports and road infrastructure? Or is it worth diverting some of that expense to better and faster rail connections?
Many locals have found it quicker and easier to take the train to Toulouse on either the Caussade main line or the Figeac local service. The French government must introduce competition like the UK franchise system so let's hope the subsidy from Midi Pyrenees will keep our lines open.
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