Train services return to normal as temperatures start to fall

Portugal’s main passenger train operator, CP, has restored its full service following a drop in temperatures, while maintaining preventive measures on long-distance trains, after the heatwave disrupted rail services.

In a press release, CP – Comboios Portugal stated that it has resumed full commercial services, although it continues to manage passenger numbers on some long-distance trains by suspending ticket sales for services and times considered most critical.

The company will also continue to step up information provision to customers, encouraging them to adopt precautionary measures whilst travelling, and will make water available at various stations and strategic points across the network.

To ensure better air-conditioning conditions, the curtains on parked trains will remain closed and, wherever operationally feasible, the air-conditioning will remain switched on whilst the trains are parked.

CP added that it will continue to monitor weather conditions, prioritising the safety of customers and staff.

Over the last three days, the company proactively cancelled 18 Intercidades services due to exceptionally high temperatures, justifying the decision on the grounds of the need to reduce the risk of a deterioration in on-board conditions and to safeguard the comfort and well-being of passengers and staff.

On Sunday, the transport operator also clarified that the extreme heat had affected not only rolling stock but also components of the railway infrastructure, such as signalling systems, overhead lines, and points.

CP explained that the risk of fire also required temporarily suspending or holding trains on certain sections of the network whenever fires near the railway track prevented safe operation.

At the same time, the company denied that the disruptions were linked to a lack of maintenance of the air-conditioning systems on trains in service, assuring that regular maintenance is carried out and acknowledging only that some older models fall short of current air-conditioning standards.

Source: LUSA

Natasha Donn

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.