Adif’s Andalusian Rail Upgrade: Signalling, Rail Motorway & Capacity

Adif Announces Major Investment in Signalling and Infrastructure Upgrades for Andalusia Rail Network

In a significant move to modernize its conventional rail network and boost freight capacity, Spanish rail infrastructure manager Adif has announced a EUR 95.6 million investment to renew signalling systems along a 130-kilometer stretch of the Madrid–Alcázar de San Juan–Cádiz railway line. The project, scheduled to begin soon, will cover the section between Espeluy and Córdoba, passing through the province of Jaén. This comprehensive upgrade, which will include advanced technologies and infrastructure improvements, is part of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing reliability, safety, and capacity across key corridors, with particular focus on supporting the planned Rail Motorway (Autopista Ferroviaria – AF) connecting Algeciras, Madrid, and Zaragoza. The investment decision reflects Adif’s commitment to strengthening both passenger and freight transport capabilities and aligning the network with the requirements of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) corridors. This article will explore the key elements of this investment and its implications for the future of rail transport in the region.

Signalling System Modernization: Enhancing Reliability and Capacity

The core of Adif’s investment lies in the deployment of advanced railway signalling technology. The project encompasses the installation of next-generation interlockings, which are essential for managing train movements and ensuring safety, and new fixed and light signals for improved visibility and control. Furthermore, the upgrade includes the modernization of telecommunications infrastructure. All these systems will be integrated into the Centralized Traffic Control (CTC) platform. The CTC system enables real-time, remote traffic management, optimizing train operations and response times. This section of the line, along with two others already in procurement, will bring the total length of signalling upgrades to nearly 300 km. This systematic renewal addresses ageing infrastructure and prepares the network for increased traffic volumes, crucial for accommodating both passenger services and the anticipated rise in freight transport.

Infrastructure Adaptations for the Rail Motorway

Parallel to the signalling upgrades, Adif is undertaking extensive structural adaptations along the Madrid-Zaragoza-Algeciras line to accommodate the Rail Motorway (AF). These measures are directly linked to the future operation of semi-trailer transport. Significant works include modifying eleven tunnels within the province of Jaén, upgrading eight overpasses to increase clearance, and extending passing loops at key stations. Notably, the extension of the passing loop at Pedro Abad station in Córdoba will be crucial to accommodate 750-meter freight trains, enhancing the efficiency of freight transport. These modifications underscore Adif’s strategic focus on facilitating the seamless transfer of freight traffic between road and rail, reducing congestion and improving sustainability.

Expanding the Scope: Further Signalling and Track Improvements

The investment in signalling upgrades is not confined to the Madrid-Cádiz line. Adif is also tendering for similar renewals along the Córdoba–Bobadilla–Algeciras line, another pivotal segment of the Rail Motorway. These projects are part of a wider strategy to modernize the conventional rail infrastructure across Andalusia. Other key projects include a full refurbishment of 106.4 km of track between Villa del Río and Palma del Río in Córdoba, as well as the restoration of Montoro and Almodóvar del Río stations for commuter services. In the province of Jaén, Adif is undertaking electrification upgrades across multiple sections, coupled with accessibility improvements to the Linares-Baeza station. These projects aim to provide better service to the local community as well as the wider transportation system.

The Rail Motorway Initiative: A Strategic Imperative

The launch of the Algeciras–Madrid–Zaragoza rail motorway is a cornerstone of Adif’s freight strategy. With a substantial budget of EUR 500 million, the project involves extensive structural adaptations to handle semi-trailer transport and aims to shift a significant amount of freight from road to rail, especially along the Mediterranean and Atlantic corridors. The project also aims to bolster intermodal links between Europe and North Africa via Morocco. Significant progress has already been made, with works underway to increase clearance in 26 tunnels and 40 overpasses between Madrid and Zaragoza. The remaining clearance works between Algeciras and Madrid are currently in the procurement phase. To further improve route efficiency and competitiveness, track extensions to accommodate 750-meter trains are planned at 17 stations along the corridor.

Conclusion

Adif’s substantial investment in modernizing the Andalusian rail network, particularly the signalling upgrades and Rail Motorway adaptations, reflects a commitment to transforming the region’s transportation landscape. The integration of advanced technologies like next-generation interlockings and CTC systems will dramatically enhance operational efficiency, capacity, and safety. These improvements are not only critical for accommodating both passenger and freight traffic but also for facilitating the seamless integration of the Rail Motorway. The ambitious Rail Motorway project itself, supported by substantial European Union funding through the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan (NextGenerationEU), has the potential to significantly reduce road freight, decrease emissions, and improve trade connectivity. The commitment to track extensions for 750-meter trains further underscores Adif’s long-term vision for efficient and high-capacity rail transport. This comprehensive approach promises a more robust, sustainable, and interconnected transportation network, setting the stage for enhanced economic activity across Andalusia and beyond.