Rodalies: delays, strikes, incidents and passenger rights
Rodalies Barcelona commuters face disruptions after recent accidents and upcoming strikes. From the Gelida derailment to the Adamuz collision, service suspensions have affected key lines. SEMAF train driver strikes from 9–11 February 2026 will add further delays, while long-distance trains may also be impacted. This FAQ explains who runs Rodalies, ADIF’s role, passenger rights, compensation options, and practical travel tips to navigate disruptions safely. Stay informed and plan your journey in Barcelona.
Train disruptions FAQ
What recent train incidents have shocked Spain?
Adamuz high-speed collision (18th Jan 2026)
A high-speed train derailed near Adamuz (Córdoba) and was struck by another on the opposite track, killing dozens and injuring hundreds.
Gelida derailment (20th Jan 2026)
Rodalies commuter train derailed near Gelida, outside Barcelona, after hitting a collapsed retaining wall brought down by storm-related landslides, killing one rail worker and injuring dozens of passengers.
Other incidents
Smaller derailments and infrastructure alerts across Spain highlight broader network fragility, such as the rockfall-triggered derailment between Tordera and Maçanet on the 20th January that left ten passengers unharmed.
Impact on Barcelona
Following the Gelida accident, the entire Rodalies de Catalunya network was temporarily suspended while Adif inspected infrastructure after Storm Harry, causing very widespread disruption for commuters.
What happened immediately after the incidents?
Services suspended
AVE high-speed lines to Andalusia halted until 23rd January post-Adamuz, while the entire railway network shut down for safety inspections after Gelida.
Commuter chaos
Barcelona stations like Sants went blank with no trains, roads and buses overflowed, and university exams were cancelled due to stranded students.
Political fallout
The incidents intensified the ongoing debate over who is responsible – Spanish government, Renfe, ADIF, or Catalan authorities. Public scrutiny soared.
Crisis response
Authorities scrambled to investigate, restore services, and secure infrastructure, while citizens demanded clarity, safety improvements, and compensation. SEMAF announced a February nationwide strike over safety concerns.
Who operates trains in Catalonia?
Renfe
Spain’s national, state-owned railway company, Renfe, runs all passenger train services – long-distance, high-speed, and Rodalies commuter trains – and is responsible for staff, schedules, and day-to-day operations.
Rodalies de Catalunya (cercanías)
The commuter network around Barcelona. Operated by Renfe, partially overseen by the Catalan government. The media often refer to it as ‘Rodalies’ as if it were separate, but it’s part of Renfe.
ADIF
Owns and manages tracks, stations, signalling, and infrastructure nationwide (including Rodalies lines). Does not operate trains but handles maintenance and safety checks, as seen post-Gelida when it led full-network inspections.
FGC (Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya)
Separate Catalan network; generally not affected by Renfe disruptions.
Catalan government
Funds and co-manages Rodalies via contracts with Renfe. Oversees regional planning, pushing for more control over Rodalies to improve services and safety. Directly operates FGC.
Why are train drivers striking?
Chronic issues
Spanish Union of Train Drivers and Assistant Drivers (SEMAF) and other rail unions cite overcrowded schedules, chronic understaffing (especially on Rodalies), and unsafe working conditions like fatigue from overtime.
Safety concerns
The Adamuz and Gelida incidents highlighted infrastructure and operational weaknesses.
Pay and conditions
Demands for fair compensation, shorter shifts, better rest periods and professional respect.
How are the strikes affecting rail operations?
Partial/full cancellations, affecting commuters and long-distance trains. Strikes aim to pressure authorities for urgent improvements
When will the trains in Barcelona be affected by a strike?
The train drivers’ union SEMAF has announced a railway strike from 9 to 11 February 2026, which will disrupt Rodalies commuter services in Barcelona and across Catalonia.
Are there demonstrations planned in Barcelona?
Two protests are scheduled for Saturday, 7th February 2026:
- 12:00: ‘Prou!’ public services protest. Organised by the ANC and the Council of the Republic, this demonstration targets the deterioration of basic services, particularly transport infrastructure and healthcare, amid growing disruption on the railway network.
- 17:00: Rodalies commuter protest. Passenger groups will march from Estació de França to Plaça Sant Jaume, citing long-term underinvestment in the network, service disruptions, and warning that Rodalies is losing users due to declining reliability.
Are long-distance trains affected?
Rodalies is part of Renfe’s national network. Disruptions – strikes, incidents – can cascade, affecting high-speed and long-distance services, especially Sants station. Passengers should monitor Renfe and Rodalies apps/sites for live updates and plan extra travel time.
Who is responsible and why is it politically significant?
Ongoing dispute
Between Renfe / ADIF (Spanish government) and Catalan authorities.
Why it matters now
Recent incidents exposed systemic weaknesses → public demands clarity and accountability.
Political tensions
Funding, management, and safety improvements remain contested → Rodalies is a high-profile political issue.
What compensation is available for passengers?
Rodalies is offering one month of free travel from 26th January 2026 for holders of monthly and annual passes on R1, R2 and R4 lines as a temporary measure, excludes single-ticket users, and passengers should check the websites for eligibility, with claims typically required within 60 days.
How can passengers claim compensation?
- Automatic credit: Some monthly pass holders receive credit automatically.
- Manual claim: Visit Renfe website → ‘Incidencias / Compensaciones’ and submit proof.
- In-person: Ticket offices at major stations with ticket and ID.
Is FGC affected?
No. FGC (Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya) is a separate network, generally running normally. Connections with Rodalies may still face delays; always verify live FGC schedules via app or website.
Is it safe to travel by train in Barcelona?
Generally safe
Most journeys are completed without incident.
Precautions
Speed limits, inspections, and service adjustments are in place.
Ongoing risks
Heavy rain, infrastructure weaknesses, and strikes can still cause delays or disruptions.
Travel advice
- Check live updates before trips.
- Allow extra time for delays.
- Avoid travelling during strikes/protests if possible.
- Consider alternatives: Metro, FGC, buses, taxis.
Bottom line
Trains are not inherently unsafe, but the network is under pressure, so planning and caution are essential.
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