Train drivers’ unions have approved new Rodalies timetables, clearing a significant obstacle for the full recovery of services on the R4 and R2 Sud lines. This agreement, reached by Comissions Obreres (CCOO), UGT, SEMAF, and SF, paves the way for improved regularity for thousands of commuters across the Barcelona metropolitan area and beyond, according to union sources mentioned by ACN.
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The approval of these “line graphics”, which define the schedules and services for Rodalies train drivers across the entire network, represents a crucial step towards normalising operations. It specifically addresses the partial paralysis of the R4 line. The agreement also aims to adjust services for the exceptional single-track conditions in the Garraf tunnels.
Previously, a lack of consensus on these schedules had prevented the implementation of a new operational plan. This situation led to widespread delays, extended waiting times, and significant service alterations, particularly impacting the R2 Sud line. The new timetables are expected to take effect next Tuesday. However, RENFE must still detail their exact implementation for each line.
Resolving Service Disruptions
Disagreement over these timetables had been the primary hurdle preventing service normalisation. Without this validated document, the operator could not reorganise schedules or adapt them effectively to ongoing infrastructure works and network incidents. This situation had direct consequences for users. For the R4 line, despite infrastructure improvements allowing circulation recovery after the Gelida accident, normal service had not been re-established. The route between Martorell and Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, a key connection for commuters in the Penedès region, continued to rely partially on alternative road transport, causing inconvenience.
Impact on R2 Sud Commuters
On the R2 Sud line, the absence of a new timetable adapted to the single track between Garraf and Sitges forced a provisional operational plan. This situation, ongoing since mid-March, resulted in accumulated delays and increased travel times for passengers travelling to and from the coastal towns of Garraf and Sitges, popular with residents and tourists.
Next Steps for Rodalies
While the agreement unblocks a critical issue, immediate normalisation is not expected. RENFE must still provide full details of the new service offerings and explain how the agreed timetables will be applied. If the planned schedule holds, regular train circulation should begin to recover with some consistency from next Tuesday. However, the vote was not unanimous; unions Alferro and CGT voted against the proposal, indicating that the underlying conflict is not entirely resolved. This development offers a significant step towards restoring more reliable train services for residents and visitors who rely heavily on the Rodalies network for daily commutes and travel. Commuters should monitor official RENFE channels for specific updates on the new schedules and service changes as they are announced.
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Originally published by VilaWeb Feed. Read original article.
