Protecció Civil de la Generalitat has placed the Ferrocat plan on pre-alert for Thursday 29 October 2026, following a 24-hour strike called by Semaf, the train drivers’ union at Renfe. The industrial action is expected to cause significant disruption to rail services across Spain, including Rodalies commuter lines in Catalonia and medium- and long-distance trains.

According to a statement issued on 'X' on Wednesday 28 October, the strike 'may lead to a significant reduction in rail service'. As a result, Protecció Civil will intensify monitoring of mobility and potential incidents arising from the stoppage. The Ferrocat plan, part of the broader PROCICAT emergency framework, is designed to manage serious disruptions in passenger rail transport, including prolonged service outages and their social impact.

Service Levels During the Strike

  • Rodalies (commuter rail): 66% of normal service during peak hours (06:00–09:00, 13:30–15:30, 18:30–20:30); 33% at other times.
  • Short-distance services: 75% during peak hours; 50% for the remainder of the day.
  • Medium-distance trains: 65% of usual services maintained on average.
  • Long-distance trains (including AVE and Avlo): 73% of scheduled services operating.
  • Freight rail transport: 26% of usual operations.
Renfe recommends planning journeys in advance due to the reduced service levels.

The strike proceeds despite a fatal train accident in Toledo earlier this week, which had prompted calls for postponement. However, Semaf confirmed the industrial action would go ahead as scheduled. Renfe has published the legally mandated minimum service levels across its network, which remain in force for the duration of the strike.

What This Means for Commuters

Passengers in Catalonia, particularly those relying on Rodalies services in the Barcelona metropolitan area, are advised to expect delays and overcrowding. The pre-alert status means emergency coordination structures are on heightened readiness, though no public safety incident has occurred. Commuters are urged to check renfe.com for real-time updates and adjust travel plans accordingly.

Sources: Metrópoli, Generalitat de Catalunya.