The passenger train service between Once and Pehuajó will cease operations starting November 1, according to Trenes Argentinos. This means that the route will stop in Bragado, eliminating the rail connection with Pehuajó and leaving intermediate towns like 9 de Julio and Carlos Casares without service. This change has generated concern in the community, as the train was not only an economic mobility option, but also contributed to the development of commerce and cultural activities in the region.
The news has been received with surprise and discontent by many residents of Pehuajó and nearby towns, who will now be forced to seek more expensive or less convenient transportation alternatives. The segment, reopened in 2022, experienced good occupancy until early this year, when factors such as increased travel times, fare hikes, and the general deterioration of the railway affected its operation.
Service to Pehuajó was maintained thanks to Ferrobaires, a company created by former governor Eduardo Duhalde to preserve passenger trains in the Buenos Aires territory. However, Ferrobaires was shut down during María Eugenia Vidal's administration, leaving routes like that of Pehuajó without replacement. Additionally, the elimination of this service is in line with reductions in other railway corridors implemented by the government throughout the year.
Previously, it was difficult to secure seats on long-distance trains, despite the long travel times, due to the low price, comfort, and relative reliability of the service. However, the general deterioration of the railway system has led to a decrease in demand for these trains, which has been used as justification for the closure of several branches.