Following the completion of the main phase of renovation works, Adif has reopened the 185 km Zafra–Huelva conventional line, which connects the provinces of Huelva and Badajoz. The works included a range of interventions aimed at increasing reliability and service regularity on this line.
The total investment amounted to EUR 250 million, which includes the removal of the telephone-based block signalling system.
Adif has already completed all renovation works that were incompatible with maintaining rail traffic and required track lifting, among other operations.
In parallel, work is ongoing to remove the old telephone block system and implement a modern signalling and traffic control system, as well as to install the GSM-R digital communication system.
Other infrastructure improvements compatible with rail operations continue to progress. These include the final stages of trench stabilisation, improvements to both longitudinal and transverse drainage systems, as well as general cleaning and finishing works.
The works have been divided into four sections totalling around 90.5 km. The main, standardised tasks include the renewal of tracks and concrete sleepers, alongside improvements to both longitudinal and transverse drainage systems.
In addition to the four major projects spanning the Zafra–Huelva conventional line, track renewal works have been carried out at various locations between Valdelamusa and Huelva, specifically in three sections totalling around 8 km.
Altogether, the comprehensive improvements have resulted in the removal of 14 existing speed restrictions along the line, significantly improving journey times.
As part of the technological upgrade of the train control, signalling, and telecommunications systems, work is being carried out to install the Single Track Automatic Block System (BLAU), which will operate with Centralised Traffic Control (CTC) and be remotely managed from the Seville Traffic Control Centre (CRC). This involves replacing the current mechanical interlockings with modern electronic interlockings. This upgrade affects both the Zafra–Huelva line and the Zafra–Llanos de la Granja freight line in Badajoz.
In addition, a complementary upgrade is being carried out through the implementation of the GSM-R system.
This intervention significantly improves rail safety and operational reliability, thanks to the installation of this radiotelephony system, which enables voice communication between trains and the CRC. Besides its installation on the Zafra–Huelva freight line and the Zafra–Llanos de la Granja line, work also includes deployment along the Zafra–Los Rosales section, enabling centralised operation of the line.
To facilitate this, GSM-R radio equipment is being deployed, along with antennas and radiant systems to provide coverage along the entire route. Fixed communications equipment is also being installed to connect the radio equipment with the core elements of Adif’s GSM-R network. Additionally, power systems have been installed to ensure the operation of the communications equipment.
Enhancing safety, efficiency and journey times
Investments for the comprehensive renovation of the Zafra–Huelva conventional line total EUR 250 million. Spain secured EU grants for renovation works on three sections, as well as the installation of GSM-R on the Zafra–Huelva freight line and the Zafra–Llano de la Granja line.
The comprehensive upgrade of the line connecting the provinces of Huelva and Badajoz represents a significant leap forward in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, mobility, and regional development. Prior to renovation, the line suffered from serious limitations due to outdated infrastructure, including ageing bridges, manual signalling systems, and track in poor condition. These factors led to slow journey times, frequent service disruptions, and limited capacity.
The benefits for passenger services are clear. Travel times between Huelva and Zafra have been reduced by 25 minutes, and by 18 minutes between Huelva and Jabugo, making train travel competitive with car journeys. With improved frequency and service regularity, the new timetable supports workers, students, and rural residents, allowing better access to the capital and other key locations. This enhancement of mobility contributes to a more inclusive transport system that responds to the real needs of the population, especially in less urbanised areas. The service resumption also comes with careful planning based on actual demand and consultation with local users, ensuring it is fit for purpose and sustainable.
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