Spain Train Crash Survivors Warn Disasters Will Keep Happening Without Action

Survivors describe lasting trauma

The 2013 crash at Angrois, near Santiago de Compostela, remains Spain’s deadliest rail disaster. Cristobal Gonzalez was in the front carriage with his friend Oscar when the train left the tracks and hit a bank.

Gonzalez stayed aboard to help others. He told Al Jazeera that after a sudden stop and a loud crash, the train tipped onto its side, leaving passengers in darkness. Years later, he says he still struggles to discuss what happened and carries lasting mental scars.

Different causes, shared safety concerns

Survivors of Spain’s three worst rail disasters argue that more must be done to prevent another tragedy. One survivor contrasted the speeding driver at Angrois with a track problem identified in the Adamuz investigation and possible human error and control-system problems at Urda.

Maintenance lags network growth

Spain spent an average of about $1.67bn a year on high-speed lines between 2018 and 2022, more than other European countries with similar networks. European Commission data show that 16 percent went to maintenance or repairs, while the rest funded infrastructure.

Infrastructure expert Ramiro Aupin Lopera said maintenance investment had fallen sharply since 2011, after the financial crisis. He described the decline as “ridiculous.” Experts say a larger, more heavily used network makes upkeep increasingly important alongside construction of new lines.

Debate over the LZB system

Spain’s state-run Renfe operates alongside two private rail companies: France’s Ouigo and Iryo, part of an Italian consortium. Both private operators have expressed concern about the LZB system.

Expert Goicolea said the system failed and was partly responsible for Wednesday’s crash, while human error also appeared to be a factor. He proposed closing the Madrid–Seville line while the system is phased out, but said the decision rests with politicians.