Today’s drivers’ strike called by the SEMAF union is having a major impact on rail services, particularly on the Madrid Cercanías network.
Services are currently suspended entirely on lines C-1, C-3, C-4 and C-8, while the remaining routes are suffering heavy delays, diversions and longer journey times.
The strike was called by the Spanish Train Drivers’ Union (SEMAF) on 16 October in protest at the failure to honour the agreements that led to February’s strike being called off. However, Renfe has insisted that it has fully complied with the agreements reached.
Despite the minimum services set by the Ministry of Transport, Renfe says that many drivers have not reported for duty, forcing it to suspend the services mentioned above.
Strike participation is uneven, and in other Cercanías networks the minimum services are being observed.
Although SEMAF has not commented and does not respond to this publication, yesterday’s accident may have added fuel to the fire.
Nevertheless, it should not be forgotten that rail is an essential mode of transport for millions of people, many of whom will be unable to get to work today. The right to strike is unquestionable, and it is vital that drivers press for improvements in railway safety, to protect the lives of passengers and their own. But the minimum services, and serving those who need to get to work, are equally an unquestionable right.