TSSA warns Spanish rail tragedies expose growing climate safety risks

Rail union TSSA has said two fatal train crashes in Spain within a short period have underlined the need for relentless attention to rail safety and have exposed the increasing risks posed by extreme weather linked to climate change.

The latest incident occurred near Barcelona during severe storms, resulting in the death of a train driver and injuries to dozens of others. It followed another serious accident in the south of Spain, where a collision involving two trains led to the deaths of more than 40 people.

TSSA said the incidents illustrate how changing weather patterns are placing additional strain on rail infrastructure, particularly as intense rainfall follows prolonged dry conditions. The union argued that rail networks must be capable of withstanding these extremes if safety is to be maintained.

Maryam Eslamdoust, General Secretary of TSSA, said:

“The terrible news from Spain in recent days is heartbreaking and we send our sympathy and solidarity to all involved, as well as their loved ones. These tragic events are a stark reminder of the vital work our members in Network Rail undertake here every day of the year. Rail safety is always the number one priority of our union, and we will never compromise on that. It is essential we see the growing problems caused by climate change on our railways addressed. More severe weather events – such as those we have seen in Spain with heavy rain after long months of drought – are becoming more frequent. Rail infrastructure here and elsewhere must be able to cope with these demands.”

The union said it would continue to press for sustained investment and vigilance to ensure railways remain safe as climate pressures intensify.

Image: TSSA