Spanish train drivers begin nationwide strike over safety concerns

By Alyssa McMurtry

OVIEDO, Spain (AA) - Spanish train drivers began a nationwide strike on Monday over safety concerns in the wake of two deadly crashes last month.

On Jan. 18, two high-speed trains collided after one derailed, which authorities believe may have been caused by an issue in the track. Forty-six people died, including the driver.

Two days later, part of a retaining wall fell onto the tracks in front of a commuter train in Barcelona amid a storm, killing the driver. ​​​​​​​

The three-day strike, called by several rail unions across the state-owned operator Renfe and other companies, has led to widespread cancellations and delays, especially on long-distance routes and commuter services in Catalonia.

Around 350 high-speed trains have been canceled through Wednesday, according to Spanish daily El Pais, while minimum services were set between 50% and 75% for commuter lines, depending on the time of day. In Catalonia, minimum service levels ranged from 33% to 66%.

Renfe said about 12% of its workforce joined the strike during the morning shift, including staff in passenger, freight, and maintenance operations. Unions said participation was close to 100% among drivers not required to work under minimum service rules.

The unions are demanding increased investment in rail safety and maintenance, as well as new diagnostic and prevention measures across the national rail network.

Authorities urged travelers to seek alternative transport as delays accumulated at major stations, while union representatives and the Transport Ministry were scheduled to hold further talks aimed at reaching an agreement.