Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC) has experienced a significant increase in ridership. This follows the recent rail accident at Gelida on the competing Rodalies network. According to new data, FGC passenger numbers rose by 58,000 validations. This represents a 4.2% surge compared to the previous week. That debate has been building for months — we covered it in the recent 48-hour total shutdown of Rodalies.
In total, the metropolitan operator transported 1.43 million users during this period. Consequently, commuters sought reliable alternatives to the disrupted Rodalies services. That debate has been building for months — we covered it in the fatal accident in Gelida.
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Home » FGC Passenger Numbers Surge by 58,000 Amid Rodalies Crisis
FGC Passenger Numbers Surge on Barcelona-Vallès Line
The impact of the railway crisis was most acute on the line connecting Barcelona with the Vallès region. This route absorbed the vast majority of the overflow. It recorded 48,000 additional validations—a 5% increase in traffic. That debate has been building for months — we covered it in other public transport successes in Barcelona.
In contrast, the Baix Llobregat-Anoia line saw more moderate growth. Therefore, passenger numbers on this route grew by 2.5%. This equates to approximately 10,000 additional validations.
Weekend Usage Spikes for FGC Services
While the influx of passengers began immediately after the accident, the most dramatic shifts occurred over the weekend. Data provided to the Agència Catalana de Notícies (ACN) indicates a significant disparity between the two weeks. This grew as the weekend approached.
- Wednesday to Friday: The day after the accident saw an initial rise of 3.1% (11,600 extra validations). By Friday, passenger volume had stabilised to near-normal levels.
- Saturday: Following the government’s announcement of a total service halt, FGC traffic jumped by 9.2% (15,000 additional users).
- Sunday: The increase peaked on Sunday with a 25% surge. The two FGC lines recorded 131,238 passengers—nearly 27,000 more than the previous Sunday.
Capacity and Reliability During the Surge
Anticipating the influx of displaced travellers, FGC implemented a robust reinforcement plan. The operator increased capacity by 8% on the Barcelona-Vallès line. Additionally, it increased capacity by up to 44% on the Barcelona-Martorell section. These measures proved sufficient. Available capacity exceeded the final increase in demand.
Amid the disruption on the broader rail network, FGC operations remained largely stable. Over the 15-day period analysed, the company recorded only a single incident. This was a landslide on 18 January between Castellbell i el Vilar and Monistrol de Montserrat. The issue caused a temporary service cut but was resolved the same night.
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