Catalonia is facing a full-blown transport crisis: the Rodalies rail network has once again found itself in the spotlight due to major disruptions and confusion. From early Saturday morning, thousands of passengers dealt with cancellations, delays, and a muddled timetable. Official statements from Renfe, Adif, and the Generalitat only added to the chaos: some announced a complete halt to service, while others spoke of a partial recovery albeit with severe restrictions. In the end, most Rodalies lines experienced serious interruptions, with only four routes — R2, R8, R16, and R17 — operating as usual.
The latest upheaval was triggered by an urgent inspection of the entire infrastructure following a series of incidents, including a tragedy earlier this week when a train driver was killed and dozens injured after a wall collapse. Fears of further landslides and damage forced authorities to conduct an unscheduled geotechnical survey, resulting in widespread train cancellations and the launch of alternative bus routes. Passengers were left in limbo: some stations were closed, others operated erratically, and updates on the situation changed practically every hour.
Train drivers’ protest
Amid a transport crisis, Rodalies train drivers voiced their discontent openly. On Friday evening, several dozen employees gathered at Barcelona’s main station, Sants, to publicly highlight the critical condition of the railway tracks. They accused the management of Renfe, Adif, and regional authorities of trying to resume train operations despite clear safety risks. According to the drivers, many sections of the tracks have long required repairs, and recent incidents have only confirmed their fears.
Particularly upsetting was the fact that following yet another collapse on the R1 line, one of the region’s busiest, announcements about train service resuming appeared almost immediately—even though the risks for passengers and staff remained. The drivers’ protests were accompanied by demands for a thorough infrastructure review and a ban on using dangerous sections until all hazards are eliminated.
Alternative routes
With ongoing inspections and unfavorable weather worsening the situation, Renfe was forced to set up temporary bus routes on the most affected lines. On the R1 line between Blanes and Maçanet de la Selva, buses replaced trains, while on other sections, service was limited to two trains per hour in each direction. On the R2 Sud line, passengers were also transported by bus between Castelldefels and Garraf.
The R3 line was partially paralyzed: buses ran between Fabra i Puig and Ribes de Freser, while the section to Puigcerdà was completely closed due to weather conditions. On the R4 line, alternative transportation connected Manresa and Terrassa, as well as Martorell Centre and Sant Sadurní d’Anoia. Trains operated only once an hour between Sant Vicenç de Calders and Sant Sadurní d’Anoia.
Passenger reactions
Rodalies passengers found themselves at the heart of transport chaos. Many complained about the lack of information, sudden cancellations, and their inability to reach work or home. Social media was filled with photos of overcrowded platforms, long lines for buses, and confused people unsure when or how they could continue their journey. Some noted that messages from different agencies contradicted each other, and hotlines were overwhelmed by the influx of calls.
The situation was especially acute on regional routes: between Figueres and Portbou, Sant Vicenç de Calders and Lleida, and between Reus and Riba-roja, trains were replaced by buses due to repair works and weather disasters. As a result, thousands of Catalonia’s residents were cut off from their usual routes, leaving the region’s transport system on the brink of collapse.
Authorities under pressure
Catalan authorities and representatives of railway companies have faced a wave of criticism. The decision to conduct unscheduled inspections was made following an emergency meeting of all stakeholders, but the lack of clear coordination and transparent information has only increased dissatisfaction. Train drivers continue to insist on a comprehensive overhaul and modernization of the entire system, while passengers demand the restoration of stability and safety on the railways.
Meanwhile, as rains continue across Catalonia and geotechnical engineers carry out thorough inspections of the tracks, residents are forced to seek alternative ways to get around and hope that the transport chaos won’t drag on for weeks. The situation remains tense, and each new day brings fresh surprises for everyone involved in this railway thriller.
