CP acknowledges train capacity shortages in Portugal

Pedro Moreira, Chairman of the Board of CP, has acknowledged significant capacity issues and overcrowding on rail lines, specifically noting the difficulties faced by commuters traveling between Tomar and Lisbon. The overcrowding is particularly acute during morning and afternoon periods, with many passengers forced to travel standing, a situation exacerbated by increased passenger numbers in Entroncamento and Santarém.

Moreira attributed these challenges to decades of underinvestment in both railway infrastructure and rolling stock. To address the shortage, CP is undertaking its largest acquisition of rolling stock in history, involving an investment exceeding 1.2 billion euros. The plan includes the acquisition of 175 railcars, with 22 units currently undergoing certification and 153 more planned as part of a renewal program. The company expects the first new certified railcars to enter service next year, with deliveries continuing through 2032.

Passengers have expressed frustration regarding the reliability of seat reservations and the psychological strain caused by uncertainty. Reports indicate that some users attempt to bypass reservation limitations by selecting incorrect boarding stations in the mobile application, creating perceived injustices for those following the rules.