| Work Detail |
Adif Alta Velocidad (Adif AV) has launched a tender worth nearly EUR 9 million for the design, execution, and maintenance of GSM-R telecommunications infrastructure on the Talayuela–Plasencia section of the Madrid–Extremadura High-Speed Line Covering approximately 70 km, the contract includes drafting the project, carrying out the works, and maintaining the GSM-R system—Europe’s standard for railway radiotelephony. This technology is essential for train-to-ground communication, ensuring a permanent link between train drivers and the Traffic Regulation Centre (CRC). The GSM-R system, widely adopted across European rail networks, is vital for traffic management and train safety. It comprises base transceiver stations (BTS), remote radio units (RRUs), radiating systems, as well as towers, huts, masts and cabinets—all built with redundancy for enhanced reliability. Power systems and cable routing are also included to support the infrastructure. In addition, the project will incorporate the DICOM+ system, enabling real-time communications between train operators and CRC staff. This contract complements a recently tendered EUR 131 million project for security, signalling, and fixed telecommunications on the same section, forming part of the second phase of the Madrid–Extremadura High-Speed Line. GSM-R: Rail-Specific Radiotelephony Standard The GSM-R (Global System for Mobile Communications – Railway) system supports consistent communication between the train and control centres and is compatible with automatic block signalling and CTC (Centralised Traffic Control) systems. It meets EU interoperability requirements, allowing seamless rail operations across member states. Progress on the Madrid–Extremadura HSL The Madrid–Extremadura–Portuguese Border High-Speed Line, spanning 437 km, is part of the Atlantic Corridor and is divided into three main segments: Madrid–Oropesa (200 km) Talayuela–Plasencia (70 km) Plasencia–Cáceres–Badajoz (168 km, including Mérida bypass) The Plasencia–Cáceres–Badajoz section has been operational since 2022 and electrified since 2023. Testing continues for full commissioning of the Mérida bypass and ERTMS Level 2 signalling. On the Talayuela–Plasencia section, Adif AV has completed four of the eight platform subsections, covering over 39 km. Work continues on the remaining segments and on related infrastructure such as track installation and electrification. The Madrid–Oropesa route, the final leg of the high-speed corridor, is under planning by the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility. In parallel, Adif is progressing on upgrades to conventional rail links across Extremadura, including the Madrid–Valencia de Alcántara, Mérida–Puertollano, and Mérida–Los Rosales lines. Funding and Strategic Relevance This initiative supports Sustainable Development Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), promoting resilient, inclusive, and sustainable transport infrastructure. The project is also eligible for European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) co-financing. |
