MADRID — An unexpected disruption struck Spain’s rail system as thousands of passengers experienced significant delays following the theft of copper cables. The cables, integral to the high-speed train signaling system, were removed from five locations on the line running south from Madrid to Seville, authorities reported on Monday.
The incident, which occurred late Sunday, caused a ripple effect, delaying multiple trains traversing the routes between Madrid and the southern cities of Seville, Malaga, and Granada. This coincided with the end of a holiday weekend, creating inconvenience for numerous travelers returning to Spain’s capital.
Given the current market value of copper, the material has become a lucrative target for criminals, who can fetch substantial sums from its sale.
Transport Minister Oscar Puente shared on social media that normal train schedules were anticipated to be restored between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. local time (1200 GMT and 1400 GMT).
Amidst the chaos, Madrid’s Atocha station brimmed with travelers seeking updates from rail employees and boards displaying amended departure schedules.
By 9 a.m., traveler Alberto Valero, along with his family, had already spent hours waiting at the station. They were en route to Seville from Mexico, and Valero voiced his dissatisfaction with the scarce information provided.
“We’re here with tourists from everywhere — France, Portugal,” Valero remarked. “Everyone is at a loss for what to do because of the total disarray.”
The theft was pinpointed at five locations along the high-speed rail in Toledo, central Spain, according to Minister Puente’s post. Subsequently, Spain’s national police force has launched an investigation to unravel the incident.
Spain’s high-speed rail network, characterized by its rapid growth, traverses vast, sparsely populated rural areas, presenting unique challenges in security.
This event unfolded just a week after a significant power outage affected Spain and Portugal, temporarily immobilizing high-speed train operations in Spain, leaving many passengers stranded for hours.