The cost of closing the Madrid-Barcelona line would cost users 2.5 million daily

The potential closure of the Madrid-Barcelona high-speed line for renovations could cost users approximately €2.5 million daily, totaling €922 million annually. This would increase travel expenses and time for businesses and professionals, particularly affecting intermediate cities like Zaragoza and Lleida. Alternatives like air travel cannot fully accommodate the demand, with an estimated shortfall of 0.81 million professional trips. The study by PIMEC suggests a comprehensive mobility plan to address these challenges. Maintaining service during renovations would also be costly, with a projected expense of €1.4 billion over five years if capacity is reduced by 30%.