A commuter train in Asturias was damaged on Thursday afternoon after hitting fallen earth and rocks inside a tunnel.
It is the latest rail incident to raise concerns about the country’s railway infrastructure following the deadly crashes in Adamuz (Cordoba) and Gelida (Catalonia).
There have also been two other incidents this week, including a further derailment in Catalonia and a small commuter train hitting a crane in Murcia.
The latest incident involved a Cercanias Asturias (C1) service running on the line between Puente de los Fierros and Gijon.
According to railway sources, the train struck debris inside the El Padrun tunnel, near Olloniego, just metres from the tunnel exit leading into the local station. The collision occurred at 4.50pm.
Dozens of passengers were on board at the time, but no one was injured. The train was travelling at around 60km/hr when it encountered the accumulation of soil and stones on the track.
Despite the impact, the driver was able to continue the journey and bring the train safely into Oviedo.
The driver activated the emergency brake, causing a loud bang and a sharp jolt inside the carriage, which understandably alarmed passengers.
Images from the scene show damage to the front of the train, including a protective panel that was torn loose by the impact.
Spain’s state rail operator Renfe confirmed that an alternative road transport plan was immediately put in place for passengers travelling on the Asturias C1 line.
Railway workers claimed the incident was not unexpected. Train drivers have reportedly warned Adif, the state-owned infrastructure manager, for some time about the poor condition of the El Padrun tunnel.
Tuesday’s incident caused material damage only, but it has intensified scrutiny of rail maintenance standards.
Speaking at the Fitur travel fair, Asturias’ regional minister for mobility, Alejandro Calvo, sought to reassure the public.
‘In Asturias we depend entirely on the public operator, and we must continue to support Renfe and the services it provides,’ he said.
‘There will be lessons learned and integrated into the system, but we must be prudent and offer reassurance to the public.’
