Fatal Retaining Wall Collapse on Rodalies Train in Catalonia Amid Heightened Railway Safety Concerns in Spain
A retaining wall collapse on a Rodalies train in Catalonia has resulted in one death and dozens injured, intensifying scrutiny of Spain's railway safety amid recent tragic accidents.
- • The accident killed one person—the train driver—and injured 37 near Barcelona.
- • Emergency services deployed 70 firefighters and multiple ambulances to respond.
- • Heavy rainfall possibly caused ground softening leading to the wall collapse.
- • The incident follows a deadly derailment in Córdoba with 42 fatalities.
- • Public outcry grows over systemic railway safety failures in Spain.
Key details
A tragic accident on January 20, 2026, in Catalonia has left one person dead and 37 injured after a retaining wall collapsed onto a Rodalies commuter train traveling between Gelida and Sant Sadurní, near Barcelona. The fatality was the train's driver, according to reports. Emergency services responded swiftly, deploying 70 firefighters and around 15 ambulances, with the most severely injured transported to Bellvitge and Moises Broggi hospitals. Of those injured, five are in serious condition, six have moderate injuries, and 26 sustained minor wounds, including two critical injuries in the train's cabin.
Authorities established a safety perimeter while stabilizing the collapsed wall to safely evacuate passengers. In response to the incident, Rodalies Renfe activated a hotline and established a civic center to support affected families. The accident occurred during heavy rainfall, which is believed to have caused ground softening and subsequent wall failure.
This event follows closely on the heels of a devastating train derailment in Adamuz, Córdoba, which claimed 42 lives. The Córdoba accident is still under investigation, with preliminary hypotheses pointing to a weld failure on recently renewed tracks as a potential cause.
Public dissatisfaction with Spain's railway management continues to deepen. Commentators highlight systemic problems such as overcrowding, poor communication, and a lack of accountability among officials, including Renfe’s management. Voices within the community call for greater empathy and responsibility toward passengers, criticizing past treatment of travelers as impersonal and neglectful.
The Catalonia accident has prompted further scrutiny into the maintenance and safety measures within Spain’s rail network, especially amidst recent extreme weather events and infrastructure strains.
According to the Catalan Health Emergency System, “all necessary resources are being mobilized to guarantee the safety and care of those affected.” Meanwhile, local officials, including the President’s office, oversee ongoing response efforts.
This article was translated and synthesized from Spanish sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
