SPAIN: National operator RENFE stopped accepting cash payments for tickets at booking offices with effect from March 27, citing hygiene reasons. The measure will last as long as the duration of coronavirus lockdown, now prolonged at least until mid-April.
Credit and debit cards are now the only accepted method of payment at ticket offices, although cash can still be used at ticket machines where available.
The situation is unclear on routes with unstaffed stations with no ticket machines, where tickets are normally bought from on-train staff.
RENFE is providing free travel for health workers, and has launched a publicity campaign with the tagline ‘there is always light at the end of the tunnel’.
- Broad-gauge Cercanías services in Asturias are to be reduced by 25% from March 28, while those on the ex-FEVE metre gauge network are to be cut by 50%. This is in response to the reduced demand for travel, with many businesses closed and others depending on remote working. Peak services have been reported with fewer than 20 passengers.
