Project award and scope of works

The CAF-Magtel consortium has launched the first phase of the contract for the modernisation of the safety systems on the Espeluy-Córdoba railway section through the preparation of the detailed design and the subsequent execution of the safety infrastructure renewal works on Line 400. Covering 130 kilometres of track, the project will deliver a comprehensive upgrade of signalling and control systems, improving the safety, reliability and availability of the railway infrastructure.

Following the signing of the contract on 4 May 2026 and the first coordination meeting between ADIF, the Works Management Team, Technical Assistance and the awarded consortium, the initial site surveying and setting-out activities have already been carried out in coordination with ADIF personnel. The preparation of the detailed design is currently underway and, together with its review process, will be completed over the next seven months. Once this phase is concluded, the safety renewal works are scheduled to commence in June 2027 and continue until January 2030.

Station Upgrades and Safety Systems

New interlockings will be installed at the following stations: Campus Universitario de Rabanales, Alcolea de Córdoba, Los Cansinos, Villafranca de Córdoba, El Carpio de Córdoba, Pedro Abad, Montoro, Villa del Río, Los Siles, Marmolejo, Arjonilla, Andújar, Villanueva de la Reina, Espeluy, Triángulo de Espeluy, Mengíbar-Artichuela and Jaén.

In addition, CAF and Magtel will jointly construct technical buildings and equipment shelters to accommodate the new signalling equipment required for railway operations.

Signalling, Train Detection and Railway Control

The project also includes the installation of a range of key systems for railway operations, including Digital ASFA, LED signals, electromechanical point machines and new train detection systems.

Under the planned configuration, axle counters will be deployed at stations and along the Jaén-Espeluy section, while the remainder of the route will be equipped with audio-frequency track circuits.

Communications, video surveillance and fibre optic networks

Magtel will be responsible for the complete dismantling and removal of the existing infrastructure, associated civil works and the deployment of the new fibre-optic network, including both main and secondary cabling, together with all related splices and connections. This network will integrate the new trackside equipment and ensure the operational performance of the entire installation.

The company will also deliver the power supply systems, including cabling, transformer substations and backup systems, as well as railway operational telephony. In collaboration with CAF, Magtel will deploy train-to-ground communications systems, CCTV, access control systems and level crossing protection systems, further strengthening the modernisation and safety of this strategic railway infrastructure.