Union warns of ‘terrifying consequences’ of adverse weather on rail network

A trade union has warned of the “terrifying consequences” that adverse weather could have on train services.

The Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) has written to Network Rail raising concerns that there is not sufficient resilience to poor conditions which could endanger passengers and workers.

The warning came after reports last week of the collapse of part of the Aberdeenshire rail bridge close to the site of Stonehaven train tragedy which saw three people die in August.

RMT general secretary Mick Cash said: “Whilst rail workers have been battling in appalling conditions to keep rail services moving, it is shocking that even after the Stonehaven tragedy Network Rail have not been able to identify with us what areas of the railway are at risk from adverse weather conditions and what steps are being taken to reduce that risk.

“Poor railway resilience and poor weather conditions are a toxic combination which could have terrifying consequences for passengers and workers. We are also deeply concerned that the necessary inspection and works regimes needed are being compromised by budget and resource constraints.

“Network Rail need to provide answers and action before we have another tragedy.”

Train driver Brett McCullough, 45, conductor Donald Dinnie, 58, and passenger Christopher Stuchbury, 62, died when the 6.38am Aberdeen to Glasgow Queen Street ScotRail service derailed in Aberdeenshire after hitting a landslip on August 12 following heavy rain.

The union has called for clarity on whether a UK-wide rail register has been fully developed which identifies what areas of the railway are at risk.

This includes the danger of landslips or flooding as well as what are the threats to passengers and workers.

RMT said it is seeking answers as to whether enhanced inspection and maintenance regimes are in place to protect resilience.

It also wants to know if safety and efficiency are being compromised by budgetary and resource constraints and the use of sub-contractors.