Spain’s train drivers’ union SEMAF has called two new industrial actions at Renfe : a full-day strike on 10 November 2026 and timed stoppages on 12 November 2026. The announcement was made on 29 October and is linked to demands for rapid structural improvements to railway safety after the serious accident in Toledo province in late October near Urda (Toledo).
SEMAF says the renewed action is due to agreed measures on prevention and operational safety being implemented too slowly or only in part. The union says urgent, verifiable steps are needed to strengthen procedures, staff deployment, training and technical operations. Statements attributed to officials such as Semaf representative Diego Martín call for binding deadlines and clear responsibility for safety decisions. The final assessment of the causes of the accident, however, is a matter for the investigating authorities.
Renfe rejects the allegations. The company points to the ongoing implementation of previous agreements, increased staffing and measures to improve operations. Renfe also stresses that the authorities are responsible for setting minimum service levels during strikes. Minimum services were set for previous stoppages; the specific service available to passengers on 10 and 12 November 2026 will depend on the requirements yet to be determined.
The dispute is therefore unfolding on two levels. SEMAF is pressing for organisational and technical reforms that will take effect directly in operations. At the same time, criminal and forensic investigations are under way to establish responsibility and the technical factors behind the accident. The two processes are formally separate; the investigation findings are awaited.
Significant disruption is likely for passengers on the dates in question. The authorities typically set minimum service levels to ensure a basic service, but the extent and distribution of these services vary by region and traffic levels. Renfe says it will update timetables and information tools once the minimum service levels have been announced.
The dispute concerns key interests: unions such as SEMAF are calling for immediate safety measures to reduce risks in day-to-day operations. Renfe points to existing procedures, ongoing investment and the need to coordinate measures with Spain’s Ministry of Transport. What happens next depends on forthcoming decisions by the authorities, the findings of the Toledo investigation and possible new rounds of talks between Renfe and SEMAF.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).