Catalonia and Renfe to invest €77 million in 'urgent' Rodalies improvements

The Catalan government and rail operator Renfe will invest €77 million over the next two years to implement "urgent" improvements in the Rodalies commuter rail network.

The plan outlines 39 actions across four key areas: safety, stations and trains, passenger information, and impact assessment.

The largest portion of the budget - €43.79 million - will go toward infrastructure and train improvements, including enhanced cleaning and accessibility.

Major measures include new video surveillance systems, increased security personnel, and the deployment of drones.

Accessibility improvements include renovated elevators and escalators, upgraded underpasses, and painted façades at select stations.

Enhanced cleaning cycles and graffiti removal will be prioritized, with new cleaning hubs established in Mataró and Ripoll.

To boost safety, AI-powered cameras will be installed at all stations, security patrols will increase, and fencing projects will combat vandalism and copper theft.

Passenger communication will also see improvements, with updated real-time information systems, better signage, and expanded ticketing options through T-Mobilitat integration.

The plan operates independently of the ongoing transfer of the management of Rodalies to Catalan authorities. A joint Catalan-regional railway company is expected to be finalized by February, according to Catalan officials.