Spain’s Trains Collision Sparks Nationwide Three-Day Strike

(MENAFN) Spanish railway operators launched a nationwide work stoppage Monday, protesting safety deficiencies following two catastrophic accidents last month that claimed 48 lives.

The first disaster struck Jan. 18 when two high-speed trains collided following a derailment, with investigators suspecting faulty track infrastructure as the cause. The crash killed 46 people, including the locomotive operator.

Just 48 hours later, storm conditions triggered a retaining wall collapse in Barcelona that sent debris crashing onto tracks directly in front of an approaching commuter train, killing the driver.

The 72-hour work stoppage—organized by multiple railway labor organizations across state-run carrier Renfe and private operators—has triggered massive disruptions, particularly affecting intercity express services and suburban rail networks throughout Catalonia.

Approximately 350 high-speed rail services face cancellation through Wednesday, Spanish media reported, while mandatory minimum operations hovered between 50% and 75% for suburban lines depending on peak versus off-peak hours. In Catalonia, baseline service requirements ranged from 33% to 66%.

Renfe reported roughly 12% of its total workforce participated in the strike during morning operations, spanning passenger transport, cargo, and maintenance divisions. Union leadership countered that nearly 100% of train operators not bound by minimum service obligations joined the action.

Labor representatives are pressing for enhanced capital allocation toward rail safety infrastructure and maintenance programs, alongside implementation of new diagnostic systems and preventative protocols throughout the national railway system.

Officials advised passengers to arrange alternative transportation as congestion mounted at principal terminals, while union delegates and the Transport Ministry prepared for additional negotiations seeking resolution.

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