Overview
- Renfe and regional operators reported on Tuesday that up to 60% of scheduled Cercanías services were canceled early in the day and that Madrid lines C-3, C-4 and C-5 were not running.
- Authorities say legally required servicios mínimos were widely not met and several regional governments have demanded Renfe open disciplinary investigations into the absences.
- The Sindicato Español de Maquinistas Ferroviarios (SEMAF) says the walkout aims to force implementation of safety measures agreed after the Gelida and Urda/Toledo accidents and that some fixes require regulatory change.
- Passengers faced crowded stations and travel uncertainty as Renfe issued free ticket changes, justificantes and urged alternatives while regions deployed replacement buses and guaranteed school transport.
- Talks between SEMAF, Renfe and the Transport Ministry are scheduled but unresolved and experts warn the regulatory changes the union seeks will take time so disruptions could continue through the week.