Widespread Delays on Lleida-Madrid AVE Route as Renfe Suspends Compensation

The Railway Infrastructure Administrator (Adif) has extended speed limits to 160 km/h across more than 150 kilometers of track.

Generic image of high-speed train tracks featuring a speed restriction sign.

Generated with AI: Generic image of high-speed train tracks featuring a speed restriction sign.

High-speed trains connecting Lleida and Madrid have experienced delays of up to an hour and a half due to new speed restrictions imposed by Adif, leading Renfe to suspend passenger compensation.

The delays, which have affected nearly all convoys over the past two weeks, are a result of extended speed limitations implemented by the Railway Infrastructure Administrator (Adif). This measure mandates trains to travel at a maximum of 160 km/h across more than 150 kilometers of track between Madrid and Calatayud.
Previously, Renfe committed to reimbursing 50% of the ticket price for delays exceeding 60 minutes and the full amount for delays over 90 minutes. However, the company announced via its website that, starting today, it will cease compensating tickets if the delay is caused by the mandatory reduction in speed.

Consumer organizations asserted that Renfe is legally obligated to compensate for delays, despite the company's argument that the delays are 'external' to its operations.

In addition to the AVE, Rodalies commuter trains on the Manresa line (RL3 and RL4) also faced speed restrictions, adding to existing limitations near Tàrrega and Cervera. Furthermore, an afternoon incident cut the coastal line (R13 and R14) between Lleida and Vinaixa for 40 minutes, requiring passengers to be transferred by bus.
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