Renfe has issued a statement, updated at 21:00, on the measures adopted following the rail accident that occurred at 08:53 near the town of Urda, in Toledo province.
The state-owned operator has expressed its deepest condolences to the families of the victims. It has also stated that its priority is to establish the full extent of the damage and to remain at the disposal of those affected, their relatives, the authorities and the emergency services.
Crisis management and victim support
From the outset, Renfe activated its crisis management team and the Plan for Assistance to Victims of Railway Accidents and their Families (PAVAFF). It also opened a support line for victims and relatives on 900 10 10 20. Security and passenger care teams are working alongside emergency services, Adif and the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility.
The operator has established three Family Assistance Centres (CAF), shared with Iryo and staffed with psychological support personnel:
- Madrid: Sala Club at Puerta de Atocha.
- Córdoba: authorities’ lounge.
- Seville: Renfe Sala Club and the authorities’ lounge for Iryo.
Atocha, Seville, Córdoba and Málaga stations will remain open around the clock to assist anyone who needs help.
High-speed services disrupted
As a result of the accident, services remain suspended on the high-speed line between Madrid, Ciudad Real and Andalusia. Renfe has introduced free changes and cancellations for passengers affected by the suspension.
To connect Madrid, Ciudad Real and Puertollano, the operator has scheduled special services over the conventional network in both directions. These trains will add approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to journey times. Departures are as follows:
- Madrid Puerta de Atocha to Ciudad Real and Puertollano: 08:00, 10:30, 12:00, 14:00, 16:30, 18:00, 20:00 and 22:30.
- Ciudad Real to Madrid: 07:15, 09:00, 11:00, 13:30, 15:00, 17:00, 19:30 and 21:00.
- Puertollano to Madrid: 04:45, 06:45, 08:15, 10:00, 12:00, 15:30, 18:15 and 20:15.
Alternative plan for Madrid–Andalusia corridor
From Friday 30 October, Renfe will provide an alternative transport plan for passengers needing to travel between Madrid and Andalusia while high-speed services remain suspended. The operator is finalising the timetable and will publish timings, routings and services through its official channels once operations have been defined.
Strike on 29 October
Renfe has also warned that the strike called for tomorrow, 29 October, may disrupt services on certain commuter networks and corridors, including trains subject to minimum service requirements. It therefore advises passengers to travel by rail only when strictly necessary.