Madrid begins dismantling the Teleférico and bids farewell to its historic cable system

The Teleférico de Madrid has taken its first step towards long-awaited modernisation. This week, the City Council began removing the original cables, installed in 1969, following the forced closure in 2022 due to safety issues detected during an inspection.

The removal of the cables marks the start of a comprehensive overhaul that will completely transform this city landmark. The project includes replacing the dual-cable system with a single-cable one, introducing 47 new panoramic cabins manufactured in Switzerland, and renovating the stations to meet current standards of accessibility and sustainability.

According to municipal sources, removing the old cables will allow all the overhead infrastructure to be separated from the terminal stations, an essential step for progress on the modernisation. Once this phase is complete, the City Council and EMT will install new bases for the towers and state-of-the-art electric motors at the Pintor Rosales y Casa de Campo stations.

The plan also includes architectural remodelling of the terminal buildings, integrating them into their surroundings and improving access for all users. In addition, a new electrical connection will be installed to match actual demand, along with smart sensors in cabins and pylons, featuring flow analysis systems, alerts, and advanced cybersecurity protocols.

The renovation aims to reduce emissions and optimise energy consumption, further integrating the Teleférico into Casa de Campo and minimising its carbon footprint. The goal is to provide a more accessible and inclusive service, with clear signage, colour-coded support, and differentiated flooring in the stations.

The Teleférico is scheduled to reopen in 2027, when it will once again operate as one of Madrid’s major tourist attractions, fully renovated and with an investment of over 26 million euros.