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Rodalies takes a step towards modernisation: integration of control centres to improve service

Rodalies is making significant operational improvements by integrating its control centres under one roof to optimise services and passenger care.

Jordi Soler
Jordi Soler
· 2 min read

Unification of efforts for better management

Rodalies de Catalunya, the railway system connecting various Catalan towns, is about to undergo a significant transformation in its operations. The decision to integrate the control centres of Renfe and Adif under one roof aims to optimise railway traffic management and enhance user experience. Currently, these two centres operate in separate locations, which has led to communication and coordination issues between them.

Over the years, this separation has contributed to frequent errors in the information provided to passengers, from incorrect announcements over the PA system to confusion about the tracks on which trains are running. The lack of a coordinated approach has been evident, and after multiple incidents, both entities have recognised the urgent need to work together.

The integration resembles the model used by emergency services in Barcelona, where Mossos d’Esquadra, Guardia Urbana, and Bomberos collaborate from a common centre. According to sources close to the project, this new approach will allow for a more agile response to any eventuality affecting the service.

As progress is made towards this integration, Renfe has begun to strengthen its team with new additions. In the past year, 25 professionals have joined the control centre at Clot, who have received specific training on Rodalies. This reinforcement aims not only to improve operational capacity but also to facilitate better internal communication.

In addition to the increase in personnel, immediate measures have been implemented to enhance service quality. Transmission figures have been created to allow a constant flow of information between both centres while the definitive project is finalised. This is crucial to ensure that all departments involved work with a coherent message towards travellers.

However, this integration is not just a local change; Renfe has similar plans for other major urban hubs like Madrid. The idea is to replicate this successful model wherever necessary to address common issues in the Spanish railway system.

Jordi Soler

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Jordi Soler