The Renfe train drivers’ strike this Thursday, October 29, has suspended service on five Madrid commuter rail lines: C-1, C-3, C-4, C-8a, and C-8b, according to the latest update provided by the company. The disruption affects connections to the airport, the southern and northern corridors, and the branches to El Escorial and Cercedilla. Please note that the suspension notice describes the service situation at the time of publication but does not, in and of itself, mean that all these lines will remain closed until the end of the day. Significant disruptions have also been reported on lines C-2, C-5, C-7, and C-10, with delays and route changes.
Main municipalities affected by the Renfe suspension
In the south, the suspension of the C-3 line leaves Pinto, Valdemoro, Ciempozuelos, and Aranjuez without their usual commuter rail connection to Madrid. The closure of the C-4, meanwhile, affects Parla and the municipalities along its two northern branches: Alcobendas, San Sebastián de los Reyes, Tres Cantos, and Colmenar Viejo. Getafe is also affected by service interruptions on both lines, although it has stations served by the C-5. However, having another line available does not necessarily mean that it will operate normally during the strike.
In the mountains, the suspension of the C-8a and C-8b branches particularly affects El Escorial, Alpedrete, Collado Mediano, Los Molinos, and Cercedilla, which lose their commuter rail connection to the capital. Cercedilla also has the C-9 line to Puerto de Navacerrada and Cotos, a mountain service that does not replace the connection to Madrid. In addition to these disruptions, the Collado Villalba City Council has issued a specific notice: Villalba Station will have no train service throughout the day. This municipal confirmation goes beyond the suspension of the C-8 line, as the station is also on the C-10 route.
In response to travel difficulties, the Community of Madrid has increased service on the Metro and intercity buses. The Regional Transportation Consortium has announced additional service on Metro lines 2 and 4 and more buses on various routes into the capital. For those who need to travel, the recommendation is to check the current status of their line before leaving, review available alternatives, and allow extra time for the trip. The minimum services established for the strike should not be confused with confirmation that a specific train is running.