Network Rail to spend £6.4m getting railway in Scotland ready for autumn
Leaves on the tracks are often as dangerous as black ice on the roads.
Bosses at Network Rail are spending £6.4m to prepare the railway in Scotland for the autumnal weather.
Leaves on the tracks are often as dangerous as black ice on the roads because when they land on damp rails and are compressed by train wheels, the heat and weight bake them into a thin, slippery layer that can affect braking and acceleration.
Over the next ten weeks, specialist leaf busting teams will be deployed to tackle any high build up with high pressure jets to clean the rails.
Slippery as ice
Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, said: “People might not realise just how challenging Autumn can be for the railway, but it’s a season that demands serious levels of preparation and action.
“Our teams across Scotland have been planning this operation for months. It’s a huge logistical effort involving specialist staff, trains, and technology, all working together to keep passengers moving safely.
“We know how vital reliability is throughout the year, and even more so as we head into the darker, colder months. That’s why this work is so important. It aims to strengthen the resilience of the network, reduce delays, and help trains operate safely and efficiently, whatever the season
Timetable changes
ScotRail is expected to make some small changes to its timetable to make, what it says, the railway as effective as possible over the festive period.
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, said: “We understand how frustrating it can be when trains are delayed due to leaves on the line. It might sound minor, but the impact can ripple across the entire network. That’s why, this autumn, we’re making a few small adjustments to our timetable to help keep services running smoothly, whatever the weather.
“Behind the scenes, our teams have been working tirelessly to get trains and stations ready for the seasonal change. And throughout autumn, we’ll make sure customers have the latest, most accurate travel information to help you plan with confidence.”
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