Paris (AFP)
The two companies of "Macron cars" FlixBus and BlaBlaBus suspended their activities Tuesday because of containment of the population related to the coronavirus, while BlaBlaCar demanded "not to travel by carpooling, unless it is absolutely necessary"
The German company FlixBus, and BlaBlaBus - the former Ouibus coach service bought from SNCF by the BlaBlaCar platform - have ceased operations in France "until further notice", noting that tickets will be reimbursed.
"The French government has announced measures to restrict travel to the strict minimum and thus prohibit any trip that is not absolutely essential. These directives apply to long-distance transport, including the activity of long-distance coaches," explained FlixBus.
In fact, the decree published Tuesday morning in the Official Journal to regulate the containment of the population prohibits the movement of "Macron cars", said a spokesman for AFP.
BlaBlaCar has also indicated that its carpooling platforms - BlaBlaCar (long distance) and BlaBlaLines (home-work) - remain open, in the name of "freedom", "to allow those who absolutely need to travel to do so" .
"However, in the current context and the need for + social distancing +, car sharing is not recommended", insisted the general manager of the company Nicolas Brusson in a message sent to the members.
"Travel only if absolutely necessary, according to criteria established by the government. Passengers who have to cancel their travel can do so for free," he wrote.
"In a while, I hope to appeal to you again to relaunch our community's travels, at a time when we will all want to meet again and where we can resume a normal life. In the meantime, take care of yourself and from others, "said Brusson.
© 2020 AFP