Spanish train drivers call strike after train accidents in recent days
Train drivers call national strike in Spain after three derailments that left dozens dead and denounce lack of railway safety
The train drivers' union SEMAF called a national strike in Spain this Wednesday to demand safety guarantees after three train accidents in less than 48 hours, which left dozens dead, including two drivers. The union warned that it will seek criminal charges against those responsible for ensuring the safety of the railway infrastructure. “The strike is related to the emotional state of the train drivers following the deaths of two colleagues this week,” declared the Minister of Transport, Oscar Puente. Sunday: Deadly collision in Adamuz, Cordoba. The first serious accident occurred last Sunday, January 18, in Adamuz, Cordoba, when two trains collided, leaving 43 dead, including a train driver, and several injured. Rescue teams located an additional body in the train's cafeteria, increasing the death toll. During the night, cranes removed the remaining carriages of the derailed train, operated by the private consortium Iryo. According to Minister Puente, the time between the derailment and the collision was only nine seconds, which prevented the trains from braking.
Tuesday: Derailment in Gelida, Barcelona
On Tuesday, January 20, a commuter train derailed near Gelida, Barcelona, ????when a retaining wall collapsed onto the track during heavy rain. The driver died and four passengers were seriously injured. Meanwhile, another train on the Barcelona regional network suffered a minor derailment due to a rockfall, with no injuries reported.
Previous warnings and track conditions
SEMAF had warned in August 2025 about the deterioration of the tracks, pointing out potholes, uneven surfaces, and problems with overhead power lines that caused frequent breakdowns. Following the accidents, Adif imposed new speed limits on the Madrid-Barcelona and Madrid-Valencia lines and sent maintenance teams to inspect critical sections, identifying four points requiring immediate repair.
Chaos in transport and emergency measures
The accidents caused transport disruptions and chaos among passengers who sought alternatives. Regional trains in Catalonia were suspended while the tracks were inspected. Renfe published a picture of its president,Alvaro Fernandez Heredia, using a replacement bus to return from Adamuz to Madrid, as part of the contingency measures.