"500 million travelers, but no money for maintenance": are railways in Spain victims of their own success?

Spain's rail system, once a model in Europe, faces scrutiny after two deadly accidents in a year, raising concerns about maintenance funding. Despite investing heavily in high-speed rail, maintenance has been neglected, with only 16% of total investment allocated to upkeep. This contrasts sharply with other European nations that invest over 36%. The recent accidents, linked to maintenance issues and outdated safety systems, have sparked political debate and calls for accountability. Train operators express safety concerns, and upcoming elections may influence public perception of government responsibility for rail safety.