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The strike will leave Rodalies at 33% outside peak hours
Rodalies users will need to plan their journeys with extra time this Friday, 31 July. A 24-hour strike called by the Sindicato Ferroviario will reduce the number of trains in Barcelona and the rest of Catalonia, with a particularly strong impact outside peak hours.
The Generalitat has set minimum services at 66% between 6:00 and 9:30 and between 17:00 and 20:30. During these periods, which coincide with the start and end of the working day, around two out of every three usual trains will run.
The service will drop to 33% for the rest of the day. This means only one in three scheduled services will operate, so waiting times and train occupancy may increase, especially around midday and late at night.
The strike affects both Rodalies and regional trains in Catalonia. However, the replacement buses running on sections currently closed for improvement works will maintain their usual service and will not be reduced due to the protest.
The strike mainly targets Renfe's driving and onboard staff. The union is protesting against recurring problems with the air conditioning systems on some trains, a situation they consider especially serious during periods of high temperatures.
There will also be changes to other rail services. Alta Velocidad y Larga Distancia trains will run at a minimum service level of 73%, while Media Distancia will guarantee around 65% of the planned services.
The strike coincides with one of the busiest travel periods of the summer, when many people start their holidays or travel for the weekend. Those with a reservation should check if their train is running before going to the station, as Renfe allows affected tickets to be changed or cancelled free of charge.
In Barcelona, the greatest difficulties may occur outside peak hours, when frequency will drop to a third of the usual service. Checking updated timetables and having an alternative by metro, bus or FGC will help avoid long waits and unexpected issues.