Tarragona Regional train service paralyzed pending approval from train drivers

The agreement between unions, Adif, Renfe, and the Generalitat requires an exhaustive inspection of the entire railway infrastructure before service resumption.

Railway inspection team checking the condition of tracks and slopes following a service interruption.
IA

Railway inspection team checking the condition of tracks and slopes following a service interruption.

The Rodalies and Regional train service in Catalunya, particularly affecting the Tarragona area, was paralyzed on Thursday due to a covert strike by drivers, with only 6 out of 140 called reporting for work.

After two days of railway blackout that collapsed roads, including the closure of the AP-7, union representatives of the drivers reached an agreement with Adif, Renfe, and the Generalitat. This pact stipulates that the service will not resume until an "extraordinary inspection" (ITV) of the entire infrastructure is completed.

"It was responsible, although it is fundamental that investment in the network continues because these storms will become increasingly common with climate change, so the Government must start thinking about contingency measures."

Joan Carles Salmerón · Director of the Centre d’Estudis del Ferrocarril
Thirteen inspection convoys, carrying staff from Adif, Renfe, and a representative from the drivers' union, began inspecting the lines, checking the condition of the tracks, slopes, and nearby elements. Late on Thursday night, the R-2 line between Sant Celoni and the Aeroport del Prat reopened after 48 hours of interruption.
The Minister of Territori, Sílvia Paneque, announced the opening of a file against Renfe due to the drivers' refusal to circulate, despite Adif having certified the network's operability. The professionals' protest, driven by anger following the death of two colleagues in less than 48 hours, also reflects discontent over the transfer of Rodalies and ongoing network maintenance problems.