Project Profile: Murcia-Almería High-Speed Rail Line

The Murcia-Almería high-speed railway is a strategic infrastructure project engineering the final segment of Spain’s Mediterranean Corridor. This dual-gauge, mixed-traffic line will integrate the province of Almería into the national and trans-European high-speed network, providing a vital artery for passenger and freight transport. Its completion is critical for enhancing logistical efficiency and regional economic development in southeastern Spain.

Technical Specifications

The Murcia-Almería line is engineered for mixed traffic, accommodating passenger trains up to 400 meters and freight trains up to 750 meters. The entire route will be electrified and utilize standard gauge (1435 mm) tracks to ensure interoperability with the European network, eliminating costly and time-consuming gauge changes at the French border. A key technological component is the implementation of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) Level 2, an advanced command-and-control system that optimizes line capacity and ensures maximum operational safety. Significant civil engineering works include the 2.9 km Rincón tunnel, ten viaducts on the Pulpí-Vera section, and the development of new intermodal stations in Lorca, Totana, and Almería to facilitate seamless transfers between transport modes.

Key Takeaways

• Strategic Corridor Completion: This project closes a critical gap in the TEN-T Mediterranean Corridor, creating a continuous high-speed rail link from the Andalusia region along the Spanish coast to Central Europe.
• Interoperability and Efficiency: Adoption of standard gauge and ERTMS Level 2 technology modernizes Spain’s rail infrastructure, drastically improving freight logistics and passenger service efficiency across international borders.
• Economic and Sustainable Catalyst: The line is projected to stimulate significant economic growth in Murcia and Almería by boosting tourism and trade, while promoting a modal shift from road to rail, thereby reducing carbon emissions in line with EU climate objectives.

FAQ

When will the Murcia-Almería high-speed line open?

The targeted completion and commissioning date for the Murcia-Almería high-speed line is 2026. However, large-scale infrastructure projects are subject to complex construction schedules, and the final opening may vary depending on the progress of individual sections.

Who is building the Murcia-Almería railway?

The construction of the Murcia-Almería high-speed line is managed by Adif AV (Spain’s high-speed rail infrastructure manager) and has been awarded in sections to various leading engineering and construction consortiums. Key contractors include ACCIONA, Ferrovial, Sacyr, and a joint venture between Contratas y Ventas and Construcciones Sánchez Domínguez Sando.