Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB) will enhance services on Metro Lines 1 and 5, the network’s busiest routes, by adding an extra train to each line during morning peak hours from April 7th. This measure aims to significantly reduce waiting times and accommodate the growing number of passengers across Barcelona’s extensive metro network.

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From 07:00 to 09:30 each morning, Line 1 will operate with 35 trains simultaneously, while Line 5 will run 38 trains. This increase will fix the interval between trains at approximately 3 minutes for Line 1 and just 2 minutes and 24 seconds for Line 5. TMB President Laia Bonet highlighted the metro’s increasing popularity among residents.

Ms Bonet stated, “The efficiency of the Barcelona metro makes it an increasingly used public transport by citizens.” She added, “The Rodalies crisis has made us increase even more the number of passengers in some specific points of the network.” TMB is therefore activating measures to improve peak hour service and offer more capacity.

Responding to Rising Demand

This service enhancement directly addresses the rising passenger numbers, particularly during the morning rush. The decision to implement these changes coincides with the return of the school term following the Easter break, a period known for increased public transport usage. TMB President Laia Bonet acknowledged the dedicated efforts of all TMB professionals. She noted their commitment to providing excellent service, which has received an average user satisfaction score of 8 out of 10, despite the constant growth in passenger volume. This sustained high demand underscores the critical role of Barcelona’s metro in daily urban mobility for hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors.

Strategic Network Improvements

Lines 1 and 5 collectively transport over half of all passengers across the entire metro network. Line 1 trains are notably wider due to their older Iberian gauge of 1.674 mm, differing from the standard 1.435 mm gauge used on other lines. This unique characteristic allows Line 1 to absorb approximately 10% more passenger capacity per train compared to other metro lines. For Line 5, TMB implemented significant track renovations during summer 2024 between Cornellà and Collblanc stations. These upgrades included the installation of bretelle-type switches, which enable a higher number of trains to circulate on the line. TMB also added a 37th train to Line 5 in late 2024, making the current addition its 38th train.

Broader Service Enhancements

While peak hour demand remains a priority, TMB has observed an increase in passenger validations not only during busy periods but also during afternoon off-peak hours and weekends. In response, TMB also applies other measures across the metro network. These include deploying more staff at high-traffic stations. These professionals help manage and regulate passenger flow, ensuring smoother entries and exits from platforms. These comprehensive strategies aim to maintain high service standards and accommodate Barcelona’s evolving transport needs.

These additional trains represent a further step in TMB’s ongoing commitment to improving the capacity and reliability of Barcelona’s public transport system. Officials expect these enhancements to provide a more comfortable and efficient commuting experience for residents and visitors alike.

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Originally published by TMB Barcelona News. Read original article.