New Joint Company to Operate Rodalies

The Catalan government and Spain’s national rail operator Renfe will jointly manage the Rodalies commuter rail network from 1 January 2026. A new company, Rodalies de Catalunya, will take over operations under an agreement signed by both administrations, with formal statutes expected by March 2025 and full establishment by the end of the year. The company will have a board with equal representation from the Spanish and Catalan governments. The Catalan government will hold the presidency and casting vote, according to the agreement presented at the Department of Territory, though strategic decisions require a qualified majority.

Renfe Subsidiary to Transfer Assets and Staff

Renfe will first create a subsidiary incorporating its assets and personnel in Catalonia, a step confirmed in announcements by both Renfe and the Ministry of Transport. This subsidiary will then become part of the new joint venture. The goal is to ensure continuity for workers while transitioning management responsibilities. Despite earlier plans for a full transfer of ownership, the current agreement keeps operational control within a Renfe-affiliated structure. The Catalan government will not take ownership of the entire network, though it has initiated procedures to assume control of part of the R1 line.

"No podemos prometer milagros,"

said Renfe’s president, María Amparo Paneque, during the company’s constitution, acknowledging the limitations of the new arrangement.

Enhanced Accessibility and Service Improvements

As part of ongoing upgrades, the Assistance service (Atendo), a joint initiative by Adif and Renfe, now offers expanded support for passengers with reduced mobility. Available at major stations without prior notice, it provides guidance, boarding assistance, and information for disabled travellers. The service covers users in autonomous wheelchairs, those with visual or hearing impairments, and people who face difficulties moving independently. Requests can be made when buying tickets or by calling 912 140 505. This expansion reflects broader commitments to accessibility under the universal accessibility strategies being developed by both Adif and Renfe, with agreements involving social stakeholders.

What Commuters Need to Know

  • The new management structure takes effect on 1 January 2026.
  • Rodalies users should expect no immediate changes to timetables or ticketing.
  • Passengers requiring assistance can access the Atendo service at major stations or by prior arrangement.
  • More details on station-specific services are available via rodalies.gencat.cat.

Primary sources: rodalies.gencat.cat, renfe.com, Semprún Wilde África Marta, transportes.gob.es, Ana Lago Gromaz, Txus Flores. Reported by diaricatalunya.cat, catalannews.com, Arturo Puente, Alfonso L. Congostrina, Cristina Buesa, Javier Díaz Mallo, Carlota Camps, Marc Guasch Ferreiro, adif.es, Àngels Piñol, Bernat Coll, RTVE.es.