Spain’s Zafra–Huelva Rail Line Upgrade: Infrastructure & Tech Innovations

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Introduction

Adif has reopened the 185 km Zafra–Huelva conventional line, which connects the provinces of Huelva and Badajoz, following the completion of renovation works. The total investment in the project amounted to EUR 250 million.

Infrastructure Improvements

The renovation works on the Zafra–Huelva line included interventions aimed at increasing reliability and service regularity. These improvements were divided into four sections totaling around 90.5 km. The main tasks included the renewal of tracks and concrete sleepers, alongside improvements to both longitudinal and transverse drainage systems. Track renewal works were also carried out at various locations between Valdelamusa and Huelva, specifically in three sections totaling around 8 km.

Signalling and Communication Upgrades

Work is ongoing to remove the old telephone block system and implement a modern signalling and traffic control system, as well as to install the GSM-R digital communication system. The Single Track Automatic Block System (BLAU), operating with Centralised Traffic Control (CTC) and remotely managed from the Seville Traffic Control Centre (CRC), is being installed. This involves replacing the current mechanical interlockings with modern electronic interlockings, affecting both the Zafra–Huelva line and the Zafra–Llanos de la Granja freight line in Badajoz.

Technological Enhancements

The project also includes the implementation of the GSM-R system. This radiotelephony system enables voice communication between trains and the CRC. Its installation extends along the Zafra–Los Rosales section, facilitating centralised operation. GSM-R radio equipment is being deployed, along with antennas and radiant systems to provide coverage along the entire route. Fixed communications equipment is also being installed to connect the radio equipment with the core elements of Adif’s GSM-R network. Additionally, power systems have been installed to ensure the operation of the communications equipment.

Financial and Operational Impact

Investments for the comprehensive renovation of the Zafra–Huelva conventional line total EUR 250 million. Spain secured EU grants for renovation works on three sections, as well as the installation of GSM-R on the Zafra–Huelva freight line and the Zafra–Llano de la Granja line. The improvements have resulted in the removal of 14 existing speed restrictions along the line. Travel times between Huelva and Zafra have been reduced by 25 minutes, and by 18 minutes between Huelva and Jabugo.

Conclusion

The comprehensive upgrade of the Zafra–Huelva line, with a total investment of EUR 250 million, has led to significant improvements in infrastructure, reduced travel times, and enhanced service reliability. The project includes infrastructure upgrades, the implementation of advanced signalling and communication systems, and the removal of speed restrictions.

Company Summary

Adif: Adif is the infrastructure manager for the Spanish railway system, responsible for the construction and maintenance of railway infrastructure.

Technology

BLAU: Single Track Automatic Block System.

CTC: Centralised Traffic Control.

CRC: Traffic Control Centre.

GSM-R: Global System for Mobile Communications-Railway, a digital communication system.

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