In Saint-Médard-d’Eyrans, preparations for the high-speed rail project connecting Bordeaux to Toulouse and Dax have sparked significant local opposition.

Residents and associations criticize the environmental and social impacts of the €14.3 billion project, which aims to ease rail congestion.

Concerns include noise disturbances, road damage, and threats to 97 protected species, including the critically endangered European mink.

While SNCF Réseau defends the project as essential for regional mobility, opponents argue that modernizing existing infrastructure would suffice.

Legal challenges are mounting, with associations seeking to halt the project, citing ecological risks and questionable necessity.

The outcome of a key court decision could determine the project's future.