A bleak outlook for Rodalies users
The Rodalies network in Catalunya is in a critical situation, with 179 temporary speed restrictions affecting all its lines. This problem has led to drivers having to constantly brake in front of yellow signals, further delaying the service and generating frustration among passengers.
The tragic accident that occurred on January 20 in Gelida, where a trainee driver lost their life, has highlighted the severe lack of maintenance in the railway infrastructure. Since then, although the limitations have been reduced by 37 since March, there are still 84 more than before the incident. The R4 line is the most affected, accumulating up to 27 restrictions, especially in its southern section.
Despite Renfe claiming to have recovered 94% of its service, many users consider this figure laughable as they experience constant delays and interrupted services. Emergency works have required an investment of nearly 108 million euros, mainly aimed at treating trenches and slopes to prevent landslides. However, this does not seem sufficient to restore public confidence.
As part of these urgent works, more than 13,680 trees have been felled, which has generated criticism for being seen as a disproportionate measure in the absence of a regularised plan for forest maintenance. The logging has been concentrated especially between Maçanet and Portbou, where nearly 5,745 trees have been cut down.
As summer approaches, the outlook is not encouraging. Although some sections have returned to normal operation, such as the one between Gelida and Maçanet on the R1, others remain closed with no clear date for resumption. The current situation reflects years of underinvestment and lack of attention to Catalan railway infrastructures.
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