Portugal's Alentejo rail line plagued by delays, overcrowding and poor conditions

The Commission of Users in Defense of the Alentejo Line criticised the service on the Alentejo railway, citing difficulties in mandatory seat reservations that often sell out within minutes, constant delays of 45 to 90 minutes, and inadequate conditions of the motor coaches linking Beja to Casa Branca. The commission highlighted a reduced number of train sets compared with a surge in demand after the introduction of the Green Pass, and the replacement of Intercidades services with slower, less comfortable regional rolling stock.

Additional concerns include air‑conditioning failures on the coaches during temperatures above 40 °C, and doubts about the promised electrification project slated for 2027‑2033, given a history of delays in railway projects. To press for improvements, the commission met this week with the mayors of Beja (Nuno Palma Ferro), Alvito (José Manuel Efigénio) and Vendas Novas (Ricardo Videira), and has requested further talks with local authorities, CP – Comboios de Portugal and the Alentejo Regional Development Commission.

The users stress that, after 16 years of advocacy, they expect concrete actions and timely completion of works without further postponements, to ensure safety, comfort and reliable service for daily passengers.