Controversy over metro line safety probe

The C line of the Toulouse metro is again in the spotlight after the Metropolis decided not to include it in an official safety investigation requested by 26 officials. The officials had wanted to look into the safety of the construction sites following several fatal accidents, including three worker deaths and multiple serious injuries.

Officials oppose exclusion from investigation

The 26 officials strongly criticized the decision, pointing out the delays and rising costs of the project. The investigation, known as an Information and Evaluation Mission (MIE), was scheduled to be discussed by the metropolitan council on October 15 but did not meet the officials' expectations regarding the scope of the probe.

Legal limits of the investigation

The resolution states that the MIE can only cover areas within Toulouse Métropole's authority, such as road infrastructure projects. Since the C line is managed by Tisséo, the investigation does not include it, despite the officials' insistence that this was the most critical issue to address.

Officials demand accountability

Maxime Le Texier, an independent official, expressed disappointment and urged Tisséo's council members to take up the issue. He noted that the topic wasn't even discussed in a recent council meeting and questioned the possibility of progress. Julien Cadieu of the opposition group Demain Toulouse Métropole called the decision an insult to the victims' families and workers on the site.

Officials differ on responsibility

Vincent Terrail-Novès, mayor of Balma and vice-president of Toulouse Métropole, acknowledged differing views but emphasized that judicial authorities—not officials—should handle such cases. He argued for transparency and accountability in the events but stressed that justice is the role of the courts.

Safety concerns remain unresolved

Maxime Le Texier countered that the MIE's purpose is not to replace the justice system but to examine safety measures on construction sites. He called the resolution "misguided" and warned he would not support it without a commitment to include the metro in the investigation. He also stated he was chosen by the left to serve on the MIE and would work to improve road construction safety.

Delays and costs spark further criticism

Beyond safety, the C line's delays and rising costs have fueled criticism. Julien Cadieu called the project a "fiasco," estimating it will cost at least 1 billion euros more than planned and face at least a five-year delay. The completion date has been pushed back to 2029, instead of the original 2024–2025.

Project leaders defend progress

Vincent Terrail-Novès accused opponents of seeking controversy and stated that large projects often face incidents. He claimed project teams are working to mitigate delays caused by a technical issue and that compensation plans are in place. He also noted that 70% of the line is completed, with major work expected to finish by early 2025, though the final commissioning date remains to be confirmed.