The train circulation at Atocha Station has resumed after authorities detained an individual in an unauthorized area of the station, an action that triggered chaos and suspended services across the network. This was confirmed by the Minister of Transport and Renfe’s management. The incident affected around 8,000 passengers, both in the terminal and on trains.
Around 7:30 p.m., train movement was interrupted due to the presence of an unauthorized person on an upper footbridge, who threatened to jump onto the tracks. The event forced the cessation of the station’s power supply and the total suspension of rail services, turning the station into the scene of an emergency.
High-speed AVE trains, along with Avlo and Avant services, had their itineraries cut short. The Madrid Cercanías lines C3, C4, C5, and C7 were also affected, leaving many travelers with limited transport options. Renfe officials could not provide a precise estimate for the duration of the delays anticipated by this disruption.
Incidence in the Tunnel Between Atocha and Chamartín
This incident adds to what occurred earlier in the afternoon around 4:00 p.m. when Adif explained that an incident during a maneuver caused the suspension of high-speed circulation between Chamartín and Jardín Botánico, affecting Madrid’s traffic heading eastward.
At the time of the occurrence, several carriages derailed and collided, causing the train to overturn and render the vehicle unusable.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported; both drivers and the two technicians aboard were unharmed, though they required treatment for minor contusions and anxiety after the collision. The service interruption generated heavy congestion at the stations, forcing Renfe, Ouigo, and Iryo to relocate all services.
Temporary Alternatives
The operator has implemented temporary measures to ease passenger mobility, including transfers to Cercanías trains to cover the route between Atocha and Chamartín. Adif stated that trains originating in Valencia and Alicante with Chamartín as their original destination will be redirected to Puerta de Atocha.
Additionally, passengers in Madrid traveling to Valencia can use the Cercanías service between Chamartín and Atocha at no cost, facilitating their journey and the continuity of their travel plans.
Rail authorities are working to restore normal service as soon as possible and travelers are advised to check updated itineraries. Authorities are seeking to clarify the causes of the derailment and ensure safety in high-speed operations, and travelers are encouraged to monitor Renfe updates for the latest information.