article_detail

The economic fallout from the January 18 train accident in Adamuz is continuing to ripple across Andalucía, with the temporary closure of the high-speed rail link between Madrid and Málaga now expected to cost the Costa del Sol €109 million.

 

The line has remained disrupted following the accident and a subsequent landslide in Álora, with no confirmed date yet for a full reopening. As a result, nearly 66,000 fewer tourists are expected to visit the province between Sunday January 19 and Saturday March 1.

 

According to figures released by Turismo Costa del Sol and the Málaga Provincial Council, more than 140,599 people would normally have travelled by train to the Costa del Sol during this period. After factoring in those who may switch to other forms of transport or make alternative arrangements, it is estimated that 65,848 tourists will ultimately not make the trip.

 

In direct spending alone, that represents €71.8 million. When indirect and induced effects on the wider tourism economy are included, the total impact rises to €109 million.

 

Francisco Salado, president of Turismo Costa del Sol and the Málaga Provincial Council, warned that the consequences stretch well beyond the tourism sector. “We’re not just talking about hotels, restaurants or leisure businesses, but the entire provincial economy,” he said.

 

He pointed out that Málaga’s strong technological and business network depends heavily on fast, reliable connections with Madrid. “The lack of a direct and competitive rail connection with Madrid not only affects the arrival of visitors, but also business mobility and economic activity linked to congresses, meetings and projects in all sectors,” he explained.

 

Salado has called on the central government to provide extraordinary aid to help offset the losses and to implement “a plan to reverse this situation that negatively impacts the development of one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing areas in the country.”

 

The high-speed AVE service is one of the main gateways for domestic tourism to the province, particularly for short breaks and weekend getaways during the winter months.

 

The financial warning follows a recent survey indicating that public confidence in rail travel has been shaken in the wake of the Adamuz tragedy, and comes after nationwide rail strike action earlier this month added to disruption for passengers.

 

 

Image: wikicommons