A sudden speed restriction has been imposed on the high-speed rail line between Madrid and Valencia. Trains are now required to slow down to 160 km/h over a stretch just 1.8 kilometers long. The measure follows alarming reports from a train driver who spotted dangerous rail defects. This isn’t the first time speed limits have been introduced—similar actions were previously taken on other routes, always in response to direct complaints from drivers operating the trains.
This time, the driver of train number 05890 reported a strong jolt at a switch near Villarrubia, as well as significant swaying of the train between kilometers 222 and 222.7 on the Cuenca-Monteagudo section. He also noted a sudden dip between kilometers 292 and 293 on the Minglanilla-Caudete de las Fuentes stretch, and another area of dangerous vibrations between kilometers 384.4 and 384.5 on the Chiva-Bif. Xàtiva line. All of these reports came in the same day and were considered a sufficient reason for immediate action.
Infrastructure response
The railway infrastructure operator claims it is strictly following safety protocol. According to them, imposing a restriction on such a short stretch does not affect the overall speed along the route. Trains continue to operate at their usual maximum speed on the other sections. However, the very fact that such restrictions are appearing raises concerns among passengers and industry workers: how safe are the remaining segments if even minor defects prompt such drastic measures?
The inspection of the problem areas is scheduled for nighttime. Specialists will assess the condition of the rails and decide whether to lift the restrictions or, on the contrary, make them stricter. The company emphasizes that the safety of passengers and staff is the top priority but admits that such incidents are becoming increasingly common.
A Chain of Incidents
The situation on the Madrid–Valencia line is not unique. Previously, similar restrictions were introduced on the Madrid–Barcelona route, where speeds were reduced on a 150-kilometer section between Madrid and Zaragoza (Zaragoza). The cause was also numerous complaints from the same train driver, who reported 21 out of 25 incidents received by the company in a single day. After the temporary lifting of the restrictions, new alerts forced the speed limit to be reinstated on a 78-kilometer stretch.
The Minister of Transport notes that most such reports concern not so much safety as comfort. However, no one dares to ignore them—the consequences of a possible mistake are too serious. Especially in light of recent tragedies: in recent days, two train drivers have died in Spain—one in Adamuz (Cordoba), another in Gelida (Barcelona).
Union pressure
The train drivers’ union Semaf insists that even the slightest suspicion of track defects should lead to a reduction in speed, even if official limits don’t require it. The organization is ready to stage a strike if the situation does not improve. The authorities are trying to defuse tensions, offering dialogue and promising rapid infrastructure inspections.
Tensions are rising in the sector. Workers demand safety guarantees, while passengers expect reliable and predictable schedules. Every new incident sparks debate: is it time to reconsider the approach to maintaining high-speed rail lines?
A test for the system
Spain’s high-speed railways are a source of national pride, but recent events have cast doubt on their flawless reputation. The system, designed for fast and heavy traffic, is showing its vulnerabilities—from human error to infrastructure wear and tear. While some are calling for stricter oversight, others fear that constant restrictions will make train travel less attractive.
The question of how quickly and effectively the identified defects can be fixed remains unanswered. One thing is clear: signals from the ground can no longer be ignored. Spain’s railway system is facing a real test of resilience—and how it handles this challenge will determine the trust of millions of passengers.
