Passengers travelling to and from Alicante by train today, 29 June, are being advised to check their journeys before setting off, as a 24-hour nationwide train strike affects Renfe services across Spain.
Why are train workers striking in Alicante?
Unlike many recent transport disputes across Europe, today’s strike is not centred on pay for once. The Sindicato Ferroviario (Railway Union) says the action is in protest over plans affecting Renfe Mercancías, the company’s freight division. Union representatives argue that proposals to create a joint venture with private freight operator Medway represent a gradual privatisation of Spain’s public rail freight service.
The union has also raised concerns over the planned closure of the Renfe maintenance workshop in Miranda de Ebro and claims that previous agreements with the Ministry of Transport regarding the future of the public railway have not been honoured.
How many trains have been cancelled?
Renfe confirmed in advance that 320 services would be cancelled across Spain. This includes 98 high-speed and long-distance services and 222 medium-distance services. The good news is that a large proportion of trains are still operating. This is thanks to strict minimum service obligations imposed by the government. As a result, approximately 73% of long-distance services, and 65% of medium-distance services are continuing to run.
What does the strike mean for Alicante trains?
As a result of the government’s minimum service requirement, much of the network in Alicante continues to run. However, some passengers are still likely to experience disruption. Those who are travelling on AVE, Avlo, Euromed, Intercity and Medium-Distance services are strongly advised to check the status of their train before travelling, in case of cancellation.
Should you find that you are one of the unlucky ones who has unfortunately had their train cancelled, Renfe have confirmed they are allowing passengers to:
- Transfer to another available service free of charge
- Change their booking to a different date
- Request a full refund
Are further train strikes planned?
It appears this is not the only train strike in Alicante passengers can expect this summer. The Sindicato Ferroviario has already confirmed that they intend to hold a further 24-hour nationwide strike on Tuesday 15 July. Of course, as negotiations between the two parties continue, there is hope that the dispute will be resolved before then.
For now, anyone booking rail travel over the coming weeks should keep an eye out for any updates from Renfe. This is particularly important if you are intending to book either the long-distance or high-speed services.
