Spain to reduce Madrid-Seville train services and tighten safety procedures after recent disaster
Spain will reduce the number of high-speed trains running on the Madrid–Seville line and require a second controller to approve instructions issued when automatic safety systems are unavailable, following the Urda rail disaster that killed 69 people. Transport Minister Óscar Puente announced the measures on Tuesday after a cabinet meeting... The post Spain to reduce Madrid-Seville train services…
Spain plans to reduce high-speed train services on the Madrid-Seville line following the Urda rail disaster that claimed 69 lives. Transport Minister Óscar Puente announced stricter safety measures, including the requirement for a second controller to approve instructions when automatic safety systems are unavailable. The changes will also include updated monitoring technology, an extensive safety audit, and improved staff training and working conditions.
The number of trains will be reduced, with longer trains and newly installed ERTMS Level 2 signalling system expected to enter service by early 2027. The collision between a Renfe AVE and an Iryo train in Toledo on October 28 left hundreds injured and 38 people hospitalized. Two controllers will now be required to approve emergency instructions under 'degraded' conditions when automatic block systems are unavailable.
The ministry will also implement a 40 km/h speed limit when the automatic safety system fails and introduce advanced technology and AI systems to monitor communications and identify potential issues. Additional measures include stronger staffing provisions, revised rest arrangements, and wider fatigue-management controls. The government will also temporarily cap fares for alternative transport during the emergency period.
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