Forest Fire Halts Northern Rail Line

Seberne to Vale de Santarém Service Disrupted

Rail traffic on Portugal’s North line has been suspended as a forest fire rages near Sebtil Station. The blaze, located in the Cartaxo municipality, has prompted immediate operational changes for Comboios de Portugal (CP).

Emergency Response Underway

The fire, which is consuming bush and forestland, has deployed a significant emergency response. According to the National Emergency Authority and Civil Protection, 75 personnel, 21 vehicles, and two aerial units are currently engaged in combating the flames. Firefighters from Almeirim are among those actively involved in resolution efforts.

CP issued a statement via social media, acknowledging the disruption. “We apologize for the inconvenience caused. We will update the information whenever it is justified,” the company stated.

The Portuguese National Civil Protection Authority reported over 1,000 forest fires in the country during the first half of 2023, highlighting the ongoing challenges of vegetation fires during drier seasons (Portugal Resident, 2023).

Service Interruption Details

The circulation halt affects the rail section between Seberne and Vale de Santarém. The proximity of the active fire to Sebtil Station necessitated the precautionary shutdown to ensure public and operational safety.