Comprehensive improvement project for the Huesca–Canfranc railway line
The scope of the works covers the Bif. Canfranc – Canfranc line (L‑204), under the Zaragoza Maintenance Area. The project involves track renewal (sleepers, rails, and ballast) between Ayerbe and Caldearenas, specifically along the Ayerbe–Santa María and La Peña, and Santa María and La Peña–Sabiñánigo sections, totaling 37 km. All renewal works were carried out using heavy railway machinery owned by Rover Rail.
Measures have been implemented to improve operational safety and enhance performance, including the introduction of transition curves (clothoids) in bends where they were previously absent or too short, allowing for higher speeds.
The following improvements have also been carried out:
- Embankment stabilization, addressing settlement issues by introducing an impermeable formation layer, particularly in critical sections with severe defects, including reinforcement with piles.
- Extension of tunnel portals in areas with rockfall risks.
- Slope stabilization works to prevent material falling onto the track.
- Repairs to major bridge defects.
- Drainage improvements, including the construction of 36 transverse drainage structures and 36 km of lined drainage ditches.
- Construction of new platforms at the stations of Riglos, Riglos-Concilia, Anzánigo, and Santa María y La Peña.
Regarding the upgrade of the line for freight traffic in view of a potential reopening to international traffic, the following actions have been undertaken:
- Enabling the crossing of 750 m-long trains, by extending the passing loop at Santa María y La Peña station towards Canfranc, as well as the existing PAET in Hoya de Huesca. This required the demolition of an existing overpass and the construction of a new one.
- Ensuring a uniform GEB 16 loading gauge across the 9 existing tunnels, involving track lowering works and reinforcement and waterproofing of tunnel sidewalls and vaults to extend their service life.
