The pressures from Salvador Illa and Catalan businessmen abort Óscar Puente's idea to suspend the AVE Madrid-Barcelona line

The Catalan government and business leaders oppose the proposed closure of the AVE line between Madrid and Barcelona, initially suggested by Minister Óscar Puente. They welcome Puente's reconsideration, emphasizing the importance of maintaining service during planned renovations in 2027. Salvador Illa, the President of the Generalitat, expressed his disagreement with a potential year-long suspension of the AVE service. Paneque, the PSC spokesperson, stated that if works can proceed safely while keeping the service operational, it should continue, even at reduced speeds. She noted that similar considerations have been made in Catalonia regarding service interruptions for maintenance work.