In a significant development, five French parliamentarians have called for a moratorium and a referendum on the controversial high-speed rail project, the Grand Projet Ferroviaire du Sud-Ouest (GPSO).

This project, estimated at €14.3 billion, aims to connect Bordeaux to Toulouse and eventually to Spain.

The proposal has sparked debate due to its environmental impact and financial burden on local communities.

Critics argue that the project would destroy thousands of hectares of natural land and increase CO2 emissions, while supporters highlight potential economic benefits and reduced travel times.

Despite the opposition, a recent commission report has approved the environmental authorization for the project, with conditions to protect endangered species.

The call for a referendum seeks to give a voice to the 2,340 affected communities, aiming to resolve the long-standing debate and restore public trust in governmental decisions.