We’ve lengthy endured a litany of excuses for rail chaos together with the improper form of leaves, snow and wind.
Now, including to the pure phenomena that prepare operators can’t deal with, they’ve blamed the improper form of daylight.
It comes as figures confirmed Community Rail paid tens of millions to operators in compensation. Claims included prepare corporations holding it answerable for the glare of the solar on signalling gear affecting drivers’ sight.
We’ve lengthy endured a litany of excuses for rail chaos together with the improper form of leaves, snow and wind. Now, including to the pure phenomena that prepare operators can’t deal with, they’ve blamed the improper form of daylight (inventory picture)
The problem triggered disruption on 4,206 companies previously three years, the figures present. In complete there have been 358 hours – virtually 15 days – of delays, along with the cancellation of 130 companies as a result of it was too shiny to see gear.
The worst issues sparked by daylight on indicators have been at Birmingham New Road the place 152 trains have been delayed and 9 cancelled in February 2019.
Prices will not be given for particular person instances however are included in compensation to operators for unplanned disruption – £258million in 2018/19 and £60million in 2019/20. Final yr’s complete just isn’t but accessible.
Operators are responsible for points in trains or stations, Community Rail for all the pieces else. Community Rail mentioned it exhibits why plans to reform the system this yr are wanted.