Rail freight traffic between France and Spain will be significantly disrupted again after the closure of the Rubi Tunnel near Barcelona from March 14 for up to seven weeks. Spain's rail network manager ADIF said the major repair work focuses on reinforcing and stabilising the structure, and can only be carried out safely if the tunnel is closed.
The Rubi Tunnel is a critical part of the main rail route between Spain and France. Together with the Perthus Tunnel, it carries much of Europe's freight traffic between the Iberian Peninsula and France. The closure will particularly hit automotive parts and agricultural produce shipments. Intermodal traffic from the Port of Barcelona will need to be rerouted.
Freight carriers warned that the seven-week closure will create a significant rise in freight costs. Alternative routes mean longer transit times and higher fuel costs. ADIF said that after the closure, tunnel capacity and safety performance would increase in the long term. The sector is calling on the European Commission to provide urgent alternative-planning funds for TEN-T freight corridors.
Key Takeaways:
1. The Rubi Tunnel near Barcelona will close from March 14 for up to seven weeks.
2. ADIF said reinforcement works can only be carried out safely while the tunnel is closed.
3. Together with the Perthus Tunnel, it carries most Iberian-French freight traffic.
4. Automotive parts and agricultural shipments will be particularly affected.
5. A significant rise in freight costs is expected.
