Train drivers across Spain's Renfe group are on a 24-hour strike today, Thursday 29 October, disrupting services across the national rail network. The action was called by the drivers' union SEMAF and runs from 00:01 to 23:59, affecting commuter, regional, high-speed, long-distance and freight services. Renfe has advised passengers to check the status of their train before travelling and to travel only when essential on the affected services.

Minimum services in force

Spain's Ministry of Transport has set minimum service levels to keep part of the usual timetable running. According to the ministry's decision, commuter Cercanías services must run at 75 per cent of normal levels during peak hours and 50 per cent at other times, Media Distancia regional services at 65 per cent, high-speed and long-distance services at 73 per cent, and freight at 26 per cent.

A network already disrupted

In Catalonia, separate minimum levels apply for Rodalies and regional services, at 66 per cent during peak periods and 33 per cent at other times. The union says the dispute concerns rail safety and commitments it says were promised earlier, while Renfe has said it has met its obligations under a February agreement.

The strike comes a day after a high-speed collision near Urda in Toledo, on the Madrid to Andalusia line, which had already interrupted services on that corridor. Travellers heading to Seville, Málaga, Córdoba or Granada, and anyone connecting to a flight by train, face the greatest disruption.

A separate 24-hour stoppage by drivers at the low-cost operator Ouigo is planned for Friday 30 October. Anyone travelling in Spain this week should check their specific train before setting out.

Sources: Demócrata and Travel and Leisure Asia.