High-Speed Rail Delay: Major Setback for Almería by 2026

The long-awaited high-speed rail connection to Almería has been pushed beyond 2026, as critical infrastructure work remains far from completion and no official opening date has been confirmed. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Infrastructure Challenges Slow Progress in Almería

During a major conference at the Science and Technology Park of Almería (PITA), experts from the Objetivo Almería AVE-Corredor Mediterráneo group outlined severe engineering setbacks.

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Almería is currently undergoing massive infrastructure changes, including demolishing essential bridges to bury railway tracks underground. Because of these challenges, experts stressed that the AVE line cannot meet its original timeline.

In Lorca, similar underground works create additional delays. The underground section there, crucial for the AVE project, will likely determine when the line can finally serve Almería.

Although construction between Murcia and Lorca shows promising progress, with Murcia’s refurbished Carmen station set to reopen this summer, Almería’s completion remains uncertain.

Despite the difficulties, officials highlighted “intense activity” along the corridor, with specialized crews operating across the entire Murcia-Almería route. So, while there is movement, much remains unfinished.

Future Developments Aim to Boost Almería’s Logistics

Alongside the main project, focus has shifted to developing dry ports in Níjar and Pulpí. These logistical hubs are expected to be operational by December 2027 and May 2028, respectively, offering regional economic benefits.

Meanwhile, concerns grow over the AVE route between Almería and Granada. Experts noted that steep slopes between Gérgal and Santa Fe could restrict train speeds to below 100 km/h, raising doubts about the ‘high-speed’ promise.

Work continues along the corridor, but Almería’s full integration into Spain’s high-speed network now appears unlikely before the end of the decade. Business leaders and residents remain hopeful, but official guarantees remain elusive.

Source, photo: murciatoday.com

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