NewsrailwayGovernment'S Bold New Vision For Railways
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Rail Technology Magazine
Jan 08, 2025Government'S Bold New Vision For Railways
These expectations will be considered by the ORR when making access decisions regarding new open access applications.
In the letter Heidi Alexander said
“I wanted to take this opportunity to write to you to confirm my policy position regarding Open Access.“
“Whilst this letter does not replace the formal guidance currently in place and holds no formal legal standing, I hope it will be helpful to the ORR by setting out my expectations for how the Government’s vision for Open Access operates alongside a publicly owned railway.
“I also intend to consider amendments to my Secretary of State guidance. This will build upon the policy position set out in this letter, as well as wider consideration of how a reformed sector - as it moves towards a single directing mind and public ownership - provides better value for passengers and taxpayers.
“I recognise the benefits that can be provided by Open Access operators in the right circumstances and that both existing and new Open Access operators can open up new markets, drive innovation and offer choice to passengers.
“However, there is a balance to be struck to ensure the benefits provided by Open Access operators outweigh the impacts they have on taxpayers and the ability to operate the network efficiently. We need to be mindful of the impacts of Open Access such as the level of revenue they can abstract from contracted services and the associated implications for passengers and taxpayers. I am also aware of the additional pressures new services can create on already constrained network capacity and their impact on the value secured from public investment in infrastructure. While Open Access operators pay variable access charges to Network Rail to cover the direct costs incurred running their trains on the network, unlike governmentcontracted operators they do not fully cover the costs of fixed track access charges towards long-term maintenance of the network and central support costs. Currently only one Open Access operator contributes towards fixed costs via an Infrastructure Cost Charge, and taxpayers are left to fill shortfalls.
“I want to ensure appropriate balance between these elements, and my priority is to see the network move to a financially sustainable model which maximises benefits and value for passengers and taxpayers while delivering improved performance as we move towards public ownership. As such I would like to make clear my expectation that you give due consideration to the priorities I set out in this letter whilst respecting your statutory duties. I wish to see the impacts on the taxpayer and on overall performance for passengers – such as potential congestion on the network – given primacy when considering open access applications.
“I look forward to meeting you and working together to improve the railways for customers and taxpayers. My officials will reflect the position set out above in responses to the applications that you are currently considering and remain ready to work with you.”
Image credit: iStock
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RAILWAY PRO
China Invests Usd 1.4 Billion In Tanzania-Zambia RailwayChina Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) will invest USD 1.4 billion for the revitalisation of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (Tazara), the CEO of the authority Bruno Ching’andu announced at the Zambia International Mining and Energy Conference (ZIMEC 2025) held in Kitwe.
The Chinese company will support the railway infrastructure and operations of Tazara under a 30-year concession arrangement which is currently under negotiation procedure. This investment will “make significant step toward transforming TAZARA into a more efficient and reliable transport corridor. This partnership is expected to address the railway’s declining performance and restore its operational efficiency, the CEO Tazara said.
Under the terms of the proposed agreement, CCECC will invest USD 1 billion for full rehabilitation of Tazara’s railway track infrastructure, enhancing safety, efficiency, and capacity while USD 400 million will be used for the procurement of 32 brand-new locomotives and 762 new wagons, significantly increasing freight and passenger transport capacity. In addition, CCECC will be responsible for periodic major overhauls, alongside continuous maintenance, which will be conducted throughout the concession period to ensure long-term continuity and sustainability.
Under the 30-year concession period, 3 years will be dedicated to the construction and rehabilitation work, while the remaining 27 years involves full operational management to ensure long-term sustainability.
The decision to grant a concession follows an in-depth evaluation of Tazara’s challenges over the years, which necessitated urgent intervention. The public-private partnership (PPP) model was chosen after extensive due diligence to ensure alignment with authority’s long-term vision and the interests of its shareholders.
As the concessionaire, CCECC will focus on immediate rehabilitation of the tracks and supply of rolling stock to establish a strong foundation for success, will cover operational costs through concession fees payable to Tazara. The company will also carry out efficient maintenance and operation ot the railway system while ensuring uninterrupted service delivery and will handle back the fully rehabilitated assets at the end of the concession period.railway
01 April 2025
Rail Business Daily
Hs2 Joins The National Railway 200 Campaign And Announces...As the rail industry unites under the banner of ‘Railway 200’, to celebrate 200 years of the modern railway, HS2 and the Railway 200 team are calling on those with a connection to Birmingham to get involved.
Nationwide celebrations are taking place to recognise the achievements of George Stephenson, who pioneered the first public railway linking Stockton and Darlington in 1825. Throughout the year, industry events are being held to recognise the role the railways have played in shaping Britain’s past, present and future.
The opening of Curzon Street Station in 1838 was a pivotal moment in Birmingham’s rail history, as it was the first passenger railway station linking Birmingham to London. Fast forward to today, and the historical landmark still acts as a marker for millions of rail passengers arriving into the city.
187 years later, the area surrounding Old Curzon Street Station is now almost unrecognisable. The construction of HS2’s Curzon Street Station is breathing a new lease of life into the city, with mass investment and urban regeneration quickly changing the landscape of neighbouring Eastside and Digbeth.
Plans for the city’s new high speed station are beginning to take shape and have been carefully designed to wrap around the historic station of yesteryear. This marriage of the old and new will be central to HS2’s plans as part of the national Railway 200 campaign.
Later this year, a time capsule will be buried beneath the public realm that will surround the new Birmingham Curzon Street Station. Continuing the ‘200’ theme, HS2 and the Railway 200 team would like to capture 200 unique stories from people connected to the city, recalling their fond memories of Birmingham, a railway-related tale, or their aspirations for the city’s future.
A selection of the public’s most interesting and engaging stories will accompany contributions from local figureheads and celebrities, creating an historical record of what life is like in Birmingham. The capsule will then be sealed and carefully lowered into the ground between the old and new railway stations.
HS2 will also be exhibiting at other national Railway 200 events throughout the year, including Alstom’s Great Gathering, a three-day festival that will feature more than 50 iconic vehicles from the past, present and future of the railways.
Huw Edwards, HS2’s Stations Delivery Director said:
“Curzon Street is the perfect location to honour the city’s railway heritage and look ahead to its exciting future, and I really hope that those with a connection to the city will seize the opportunity to play a part in this unique celebration as part of the national Railway 200 campaign.
“We have the privileged position of preserving Old Curzon Street Station, while at the same time constructing the city’s new terminus station. When passengers board a high speed train in the future, it really will be a moment to behold to see how the railways have advanced.”
Emma Roberts, Programme Manager for the cross-sector, Government-backed Railway 200 campaign, said:
“It’s wonderful to see how, during this bicentenary year, the past is being preserved, the present is being captured and the future of rail is being built at the new Birmingham Curzon Street Station.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for people living in and around Birmingham: those who are lucky enough to contribute to HS2’s time capsule will share their stories with generations to come.
“Whether or not you’re one of the lucky few to have their stories sealed in the capsule, the Railway 200 campaign would love to record and share your story of connection to the railway for our Great Rail Tales Podcast. Please visit railway200.co.uk to find out more.”
To contribute a story outlining your connection to Birmingham, or your favourite railway tale, simply complete the online form, or visit the HS2 website for more information.railway
01 April 2025
Rail Business Daily
Staines To Windsor Line Reopens After Essential Railway UpgradesTrain services between Staines and Windsor & Eton Riverside resumed running on Saturday (29 March) following a week-long closure to carry out vital railway upgrades.
During the past week, Network Rail’s team of engineers has laid over 700m of new track, including over the 174-year-old Black Potts Railway Bridge which crosses the River Thames, just a mile away from Windsor Castle. The new rail is welded together to ensure smoother and more reliable journeys for passengers between Staines and Windsor.
Part of the railway through the Windsor area has a sharp curve which places additional stress on the steel rails that the trains travel on. To bolster the longevity of this section of track, engineers installed lateral supports to the sleepers which will bolster the strength and durability of the rails through this curve.
During this time, engineers also completed a range of other work in the wider Staines-upon-Thames area, including:
Mark Goodall, Network Rail’s Wessex Route Director, said: “I’d like to thank passengers for their patience over the last week while we carried out this essential maintenance work in the Windsor area.
“This week-long closure has allowed us to carry out a complex re-railing job over Black Potts Railway Bridge amongst a number of other important jobs and will ensure the continued safe and reliable running of services on the Windsor line for years to come.”
Peter Williams, Customer and Commercial Director for South Western Railway: “We are very pleased to see the line between Staines and Windsor & Eton Riverside reopen following this essential maintenance work. We are very grateful for our customers’ patience and look forward to welcoming them back on our services.”railway
31 March 2025
Railway Technology
Uk Railways To Be Monitored By DronesThe UK’s rail infrastructure manager Network Rail has started flying drones to monitor 20,000 miles of tracks.
With its partner Drone Major Limited Network Rail trialled the technology on the Wolverhampton and Severn Valley Railway lines, and will now begin a wider roll-out.
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A key use of the drones and real-time picture capability they provide is “the capability to dramatically transform trespass management on UK railways,” according to Network Rail.
“Existing response processes will be enhanced by drones operated beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS), helping Network Rail to significantly speed up the verification and interception of trespassers, thereby reducing train down-time and also potentially saving lives,” it explained.
Flying drones above railways has recently been approved by the Civil Aviation Authority, and Drones Major uses “Digital Tethering” to ensure the aircraft only fly in approved areas and do not drift into catenary cables, for example.
The Digital Tethering system uses a “world-leading navigation solution including artificial perception and highly accurate ground-based beacons,” according to the two partners. This technology works even in areas where GPS/GNSS signals are unstable or even non-existent.
Dominic Mottram, programme manager for national drone strategy at Network Rail said: “The potential for these projects to deliver a more reliable, safer railway for our passengers and colleagues is huge and could even be a game-changer.”
When active across the national network, Network Rail hopes to “significantly reduce” the £1.9bn ($2.45bn) spent annually to fix external infrastructure issues, including trespassers, animals on the line, collapsed trees, and lineside fires.
“Information provided by drones will mean our colleagues’ expertise in maintaining the railway can be focused where it is needed, without exposing them to the risk of the ‘live railway’, and instances of trespass can be tackled much more quickly,” Mottram added.railway
31 March 2025
GRR
Network Rail Trials Pioneering Drone System To Improve Safety And Efficiency Across Uk RailwaysPosted: 31 March 2025 | Gabriel Higgins | No comments yet
Network Rail’s new drone technology enhances safety, speeds up trespass management, and reduces delays, transforming railway monitoring across 20,000 miles of track.
Network Rail has launched the UK’s first ‘drone assured navigation and safety system,’ designed to enhance safety and efficiency along its 20,000 miles of railway tracks. The system, trialled on the Wolverhampton and Severn Valley Railway lines, has shown significant potential to improve safety, reduce delays, and save millions annually.
One of the most ground breaking aspects of the project is the use of drones for trespass management. These drones, operated beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS), can quickly detect and intercept trespassers, reducing train downtime and improving safety. With over 18,500 recorded incidents of trespass last year, this system offers a faster, more effective response, addressing a critical issue for the UK railway network.
The drones fly within a defined ‘safety corridor,’ utilising the innovative Digital Tethering™ technology. This system ensures safe flight behaviour by combining artificial perception with accurate ground-based beacons. It also provides real-time data on the drones’ position, even in areas where GPS signals are unreliable, such as remote or dense areas of the railway. This cutting-edge technology assures safe autonomous navigation, minimising risks to those on the ground.
The new drone system is expected to drastically reduce the £55 million per year in performance delays caused by trespass and vandalism. It will also help reduce the £1.9 billion spent annually on monitoring infrastructure issues like animal incidents, collapsed trees, and lineside fires. By enhancing the speed and accuracy of monitoring, Network Rail can allocate resources more effectively and ensure a safer working environment for staff.
Dominic Mottram, Programme Manager for National Drone Strategy at Network Rail, highlighted the impact of this project: “The potential for these projects to deliver a more reliable, safer railway for our passengers and colleagues is huge and could even be a game-changer.”
Robert Garbett, Founder and CEO of Drone Major Limited, also praised the initiative, saying, “Network Rail’s initiative as a ‘first mover’ in trialling our Digital Tethering™ concept sets an example worldwide, modernising rail infrastructure for a safer, faster, and more efficient service.”
This world-first initiative sets the stage for a fully operational drone network that could revolutionise the future of railway monitoring and maintenance across the UK.
Consultancy, Cyber-Security, Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC), Digitalisation, Drones, Infrastructure Developments, Passenger Experience/Satisfaction, Rolling Stock Maintenance, Safety, Sustainability/Decarbonisation, Technology & Software
Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Drone Major Limited, Network Rail
UK
Dominic Mottram, Robert Garbettrailway
31 March 2025
RAILWAY INTERNATIONAL
First Contract For Systra On The Stockholm MetroAsk For More Information…railway
28 March 2025
Rail Business Daily
Railway Worker Uncovers 150 Years Of Family History Linked...A railway booking office clerk from Buckinghamshire has spoken about her family’s incredible 150-year association with the rail industry on the latest edition of London Northwestern Railway’s (LNR) popular “On The Rails” podcast.
Eileen Rogers has worked in the industry for thirty years. Starting out in catering on the first-class carriages for Intercity trains, she grew up just outside of what is now Wolverton Station, where she runs the ticket office.
In the 1870s, Eileen’s great grandfather, Robert Johnson, began work as a coach builder at Wolverton Works, which was home to Queen Victoria’s royal train. His son Charles – Eileen’s grandfather – followed in his father’s footsteps with a job at Wolverton Works.
Eileen’s father, Douglas David Johnson, joined the rail industry in 1930 and would cycle to Northampton from Wolverton to carry out his training each day. He became foreman at Wolverton Works and rose up the ranks to works manager before he retired at 60.
When Eileen’s father retired, his work building trains wasn’t done. He went on to join the steam railway club in Newport Pagnell, where he built miniature steam trains for children to enjoy.
Speaking on LNR’s “On the Rails” podcast, Eileen describes her family history and its deep roots in the industry, as well as her joy of returning to work at Wolverton station in 2024.
Eileen Rogers, booking office clerk at Wolverton for LNR, said: “Growing up just outside of Wolverton Works, I remember waking up to a sea of flat caps outside my window each day. It was my dad who convinced me to start working on the railway.
“He said I had itchy feet as I couldn’t seem to find a job I enjoyed, so when a position came up listed in the local paper, he told me to go for it. I’ve worked in the industry for going on thirty years now, and I’ve truly loved it. Now, coming back to work at Wolverton, it feels like I’ve come full circle.”
The full podcast episode, which also features other interviews with rail workers with long family histories and a look at future careers in the industry through apprenticeships, is available to stream and download via www.lnr.uk/podcastrailway
28 March 2025
Rail Business Daily
The Railway Ball 2025: Bicentennial BallAs the UK rail industry prepares to mark its momentous bicentenary in 2025, one event promises to shine bright – The Railway Ball. This elegant evening, inspired by the grandeur of the Regency era, promises an unforgettable celebration of 200 years of progress in UK. Combining the glamour of Bridgerton-esque sophistication with the proud heritage of the rail sector, The Railway Ball will bring together key figures from every corner of the industry, from visionary leaders to the dedicated teams who keep the trains running.
Set against a ballroom adorned with Regency-inspired décor, The Railway Ball 2025 invites guests to step into a world of opulence and history. The evening promises a perfect blend of classic regency style and modern twists, mirroring the evolution of the UK rail industry over the last two centuries. Guests will indulge in immersive entertainment, live music, and after-party, all while supporting a worthy cause.
Held in aid of Railway Children, this grand occasion is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable young people within the rail sector. Angie Doll, Chair of the Railway Ball 2025, shared: “This event encapsulates the spirit of the UK rail industry—united, ambitious, and forward-looking. It’s an extraordinary chance for us all to celebrate together while giving back to those who will shape the future of the sector.”
The Railway Ball 2025 is for everyone who has contributed to the success of the UK rail industry. It offers companies a chance to recognise and celebrate their teams, from senior executives to frontline staff. This inclusive event is an opportunity to network, reconnect, and reflect on the remarkable achievements of the industry, all while raising vital funds for Railway Children.
In the true spirit of ‘Bridgerton’, where connections are fostered amidst grand soirées, The Railway Ball 2025 will offer a platform for new relationships to flourish. Guests will enjoy an evening of celebration and meaningful networking, all while supporting a cause that makes a tangible difference to the future of the UK rail industry.
This landmark event is made possible by the generous support of industry leaders such as Worldline, Colas Rail, and Knorr-Bremse. Their commitment underscores the importance of celebrating both the industry’s past and its future. Businesses that wish to be a part of this historical celebration are invited to sponsor The Railway Ball 2025, an opportunity to demonstrate their dedication to the rail industry and their support for Railway Children.
Taking place on Friday 28 November 2025 at the InterContinental London – The O2, The Railway Ball 2025 promises to be the must-attend event of the year. As the UK rail industry celebrates two centuries of innovation, this gala offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look to the future – all while supporting the vital work of Railway Children.
Tickets are now available, and with the event fast approaching, people have the chance to be part of a spectacular evening. Companies are encouraged to invest in this experience for their teams as a token of appreciation.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit railwayball.co.uk
The Railway Ball 2025 – celebrating 200 years of UK rail and the people who make it great!railway
28 March 2025
RAILWAY INTERNATIONAL
Railcare Successfully Cleans A New Railway Tunnel In Sweden Using Its Battery-Powered Vacuum MachineA key step in preparing for the commencement of train operations is the removal of construction dust and dirt from the tunnel. Railcare has been contracted to ensure a smooth, efficient, and sustainable cleaning process with its battery-powered vacuum machine.
The Varberg Tunnel, part of the West Coast Line extension, is nearing completion after several years of construction. Spanning approximately three kilometres beneath the centre of Varberg, it is scheduled to open in summer 2025. In this final phase, Trafikverket is focusing on fine-tuning the environment and ensuring it is clean and safe for future train traffic.
Railcare is playing a vital role in the Varberg Tunnel project by utilising its battery-powered vacuum machine to remove construction dust and fine particles from the macadam and walkways within the railway tunnel. This machine is the largest of its kind in the world and enables emission-free cleaning, making it particularly effective in tunnel environments where ventilation and air quality are crucial.
"It is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to such an important project as the Varberg Tunnel. Our vacuum machine excels in hard-to-reach places. In addition to tunnels, we can also effectively use it in bridges and railway yards," says Per Nilsson, Project Manager at Railcare.
After the cleaning is complete, the final work in the tunnel will proceed for the planned start of traffic in July 2025. With the Varberg Tunnel in operation, travel along the West Coast Line will be smoother and more efficient, benefiting both freight and passenger traffic on this route.
www.railcare.se
Ask For More Information…railway
28 March 2025
GRR
Talented Students Create Vibrant Posters To Celebrate Yorkshire’S Railway Heritage For Railway 200 EventPosted: 28 March 2025 | Gabriel Higgins | No comments yet
Students from East Riding College and other Yorkshire colleges have designed striking posters for local stations to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the modern railway.
Credit: Northern Trains
Impressive artwork inspired by iconic British Railways posters has been created for Northern stations in Yorkshire. Eleven art students from East Riding College designed posters to brighten Beverley station, celebrate the town, and promote destinations like Sheffield. The posters are being unveiled today as part of the Railway 200 celebrations marking the 200th anniversary of the modern railway.
Students from Rotherham College, New College Pontefract, and Keighley College also created eye-catching posters displayed at their local stations. They were tasked with reimagining the classic British Railways adverts from the 1930s and 1940s to encourage travel across Yorkshire.
The artwork was unveiled after the students were taken on journeys by Yorkshire Coast Community Rail Partnership to gain inspiration and boost their confidence in train travel.
Kerry Peters, regional director for Northern, said: “We’re seriously impressed with the quality of the artwork that has been produced as part of the Railway 200 celebrations. These talented students and their families can feel a real sense of pride when they see their posters displayed at their local stations.”
Northern funded the project and also took 21 students to the Houses of Parliament to meet MPs and discuss their work on improving local stations. East Riding College students were provided free travel to London by Hull Trains.
Claire Haigh, head of faculty at East Riding College, said: “We love to give our students real-world experience leading to the best possible opportunities. The brief gave them the chance to research the railways and Sheffield as a tourist destination and broadened the project into graphic design history.”
She added: “The posters are a wonderful advertisement for both the railways and the creativity our students are developing. I wish them all a huge well done for delivering exceptional pieces of artwork.”
Paul Jackson, head of customer and stakeholder engagement at Hull Trains, said: “At Hull Trains, being part of the community matters to us. Engaging with students like those from East Riding College shows how important rail connections are for opportunity, growth, and future careers.”
Northern operates 2,500 services a day to over 500 stations across the North of England.
Consultancy, Digitalisation, Future Railway Mobile Communications System (FRMCS), Passenger Experience/Satisfaction, Station Developments
East Riding College, Hull Trains, Keighley College, New College Pontefract, Rotherham College, Yorkshire Coast Community Rail Partnership
UK
Claire Haigh, Kerry Peters, Paul Jacksonrailway
28 March 2025Rail Business Daily
Railway Worker Uncovers 150 Years Of Family History Linked To The Rail IndustryA railway booking office clerk from Buckinghamshire has spoken about her family’s incredible 150-year association with the rail industry on the latest edition of London Northwestern Railway’s (LNR) popular “On The Rails” podcast.
Eileen Rogers has worked in the industry for thirty years. Starting out in catering on the first-class carriages for Intercity trains, she grew up just outside of what is now Wolverton Station, where she runs the ticket office.
In the 1870s, Eileen’s great grandfather, Robert Johnson, began work as a coach builder at Wolverton Works, which was home to Queen Victoria’s royal train. His son Charles – Eileen’s grandfather – followed in his father’s footsteps with a job at Wolverton Works.
Eileen’s father, Douglas David Johnson, joined the rail industry in 1930 and would cycle to Northampton from Wolverton to carry out his training each day. He became foreman at Wolverton Works and rose up the ranks to works manager before he retired at 60.
When Eileen’s father retired, his work building trains wasn’t done. He went on to join the steam railway club in Newport Pagnell, where he built miniature steam trains for children to enjoy.
Speaking on LNR’s “On the Rails” podcast, Eileen describes her family history and its deep roots in the industry, as well as her joy of returning to work at Wolverton station in 2024.
Eileen Rogers, booking office clerk at Wolverton for LNR, said: “Growing up just outside of Wolverton Works, I remember waking up to a sea of flat caps outside my window each day. It was my dad who convinced me to start working on the railway.
“He said I had itchy feet as I couldn’t seem to find a job I enjoyed, so when a position came up listed in the local paper, he told me to go for it. I’ve worked in the industry for going on thirty years now, and I’ve truly loved it. Now, coming back to work at Wolverton, it feels like I’ve come full circle.”
The full podcast episode, which also features other interviews with rail workers with long family histories and a look at future careers in the industry through apprenticeships, is available to stream and download via www.lnr.uk/podcastrailway
28 March 2025Railway News
Systra Awarded Contract For Stockholm Metro ExpansionSYSTRA has been awarded its first major contract in Stockholm, Sweden, supporting the development of the city’s first automatic metro line.
The new Yellow Line will become the sixth line in Stockholm’s metro network. The fully underground route will link Älvsjö in the south to Fridhemsplan in the centre-west, with six new stations.
The project is expected to provide improved access to nearly 50,000 residents and accommodate up to 75,000 passengers per day by 2050.
SYSTRA will assist Förvaltning för Utbyggd Tunnelbana (FUT), the authority overseeing the metro expansion, in implementing all systems for the new line over a nine-year period.
This metro will be completely new, including its rolling stock. SYSTRA's three-year strategy in Sweden is validated by this contract, which is a great opportunity to showcase our expertise, particularly in automated metro systems. We look forward to supporting our Swedish customers in this promising programme.
The Yellow Line will be Sweden’s first driverless metro, utilising Grade of Automation 4 (GoA4) technology, the highest level of automation.
Platform screen doors will enhance passenger safety, while shorter, more frequent trains (75 metres in length compared to the existing 145-metre trains) will reduce waiting times.
This project marks SYSTRA’s first comprehensive systems project management contract in Stockholm, strengthening the company’s presence in Sweden and Scandinavia.
The core project team will be led by Oriana Castellanos, Pierre Castanier, and Neil Bullass, supported by technical experts from Denmark, Paris, and the United States.
Specifically, SYSTRA’s responsibilities include preparing technical tender documents and managing key aspects such as systems integration, interface management, operational system design, risk analysis, and mitigation strategies.railway
28 March 2025Rail Business Daily
Severn Valley Celebrates 200 Years Of RailwayThe Severn Valley Railway has announced two first-class visitors for a special weekend of Railway 200 celebrations in July. The theme of the weekend is ‘Trains through the Ages’, and it would be hard to imagine two guests that represent more different eras of rail travel.
LNER Peppercorn Class A1 No 60163 ‘Tornado’ will be steaming along the Valley for Railway 200: Trains through the Ages, which takes place on 5 and 6 July. Only returned to service last autumn following its overhaul, ‘Tornado’ will haul the SVR’s unique set of LNER teak carriages, which date back to 1922.
From the historic ‘Tornado’ to the very latest in railway technology, the SVR’s event will also offer a rare opportunity to get up close to HydroFLEX, the UK’s first hydrogen-ready passenger train. Developed and extensively tested by Porterbrook at the Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre in Warwickshire, HydroFLEX contains up to 277kg of hydrogen fuel, safely contained in 36 high-pressure tanks. The state-of-the-art system feeds this into fuel cells, where a chemical process converts the hydrogen and oxygen from the air to generate clean electricity, with water being the only emission.
‘These two special guests mean we can launch our Railway 200 event with a real splash,’ said the SVR’s managing director, Jonathan ‘Gus’ Dunster. ‘We’re delighted to welcome back ‘Tornado’, which last visited us in 2019, and we thank the A1 Steam Locomotive Trust for allowing it to run at our event. It’s going to look splendid with our set of teak carriages.
‘Equally exciting and definitely bang up to date is HydroFLEX, representing the latest in railway technology. We’re honoured that Porterbrook are bringing it to our event, so as many people as possible can see for themselves what the future of rail holds.’
Ben Ackroyd, Porterbrook’s chief operating officer added, “We’re delighted to bring HydroFLEX to the Severn Valley Railway’s Railway 200 celebration. With exciting technology like this being developed, we’re confident that the railway’s most exciting days are ahead of us. We hope that experiencing this innovative train up close will help to inspire the next generation to take the baton and go even further.’
Other attractions during the Railway 200 weekend at the SVR will be a display of narrow gauge locomotives, dating from the 1800s, at The Engine House, Highley, as well as the SVR-based engines GWR 7802 ‘Bradley Manor’ and GWR 1450 hauling carriages from the 1910s to the 1940s, and a heritage diesel locomotive paired with a set of Mark 1 carriage from the 1950s. As well as HydroFLEX, there’ll be other examples of modern railway traction on display.
The weekend will offer the final chance to see ‘Inspiration’, Railway 200’s exhibition train before it leaves the SVR to continue its nationwide tour. This one-of-a-kind train is making the first stop on its UK tour at the SVR on 26 June, to promote the past, present and future of the railway and inspire the next generation of railway talent and workers. As well as general members of the public, the SVR will welcome hundreds of children for its programme of schools events, centred on ‘Inspiration’.
There’s more information about the special weekend event, Railway 200: Trains through the Ages at svr.co.uk. Tickets to visit ‘Inspiration’, the exhibition train, between 27 June and 6 July are free, but must be pre-booked at svr.co.uk. ‘Inspiration’ tickets are for the exhibition train only; travel tickets must be booked separately.railway
28 March 2025Rail Business Daily
Charity Begins Series Of Reform-Focused Events Focused At The National Railway MuseumCampaign for Better Transport has run the first in a series of events entitled ‘Track Changes – Making a success of rail reform’ at the National Railway Museum in York.The series of industry roundtables and public engagement events, held in locations around the country, will bring together key stakeholders from industry, policymakers and the public, to help ensure that passenger priorities are reflected throughout the process of rail reform.Michael Solomon Williams of Campaign for Better Transport said: “As the national charity that champions rail, Campaign for Better Transport’s focus is on helping rail reform succeed for passengers and the environment as well as boosting the rail sector. We were delighted to hold the first of our Track Changes events at the National Railway Museum – what better place to consider rail’s future than here in the glow of its great, 200-year history?”Run in partnership with the National Railway Museum and Network Rail, this first event featured a roundtable for the rail industry, as well as a tour of the National Railway Museum and Network Rail’s Rail Operating Centre at York Station.Attendees also enjoyed an exclusive preview of the National Railway Museum’s special Campaign for Better Transport archive collection. The Museum is currently working to catalogue and digitise Campaign for Better Transport’s archive, which spans the charity’s 50-year history. This cataloguing project was made possible by a grant from the Foundation for Integrated Transport in memory of Simon Norton.Andrew McLean, Assistant Director and Head Curator at the National Railway Museum, said: “We were delighted to partner with Campaign for Better Transport to host the first Track Changes event, and in digitising their valuable 50-year archive. The rail industry has always embraced reform, and the National Railway Museum provides the perfect inspiration to contemplate innovation within the sector, as we continue to tell stories that reveal the past, present and future of our railways.”Andy Taylor, Head of External Affairs at Network Rail, said: “Bringing track and train together under a reformed railway will support growth across regions and sectors. Today’s event allows us to work with sectors and places who rely on thriving cities and towns, and helps us work towards a simpler, better, greener railway, accessible to all.”railway
27 March 2025Rail Business Daily
Artwork Inspired By Iconic British Railway Posters Unveiled At...Artwork inspired by iconic British Railways posters has been created for Northern stations in Yorkshire.
Eleven talented art students from East Riding College have designed posters to brighten Beverley station, celebrate the town and promote nearby destinations like Sheffield. They are being unveiled during a ceremony today.
Students from Rotherham College, New College Pontefract and Keighley College have also put together eye-catching posters which are being displayed at their local stations.
They were all asked to come up with a fresh take on the classic British Railways adverts from the 1930s and 1940s, to encourage people to visit destinations across Yorkshire.
Their artwork has been unveiled as part of Railway 200 – the nationwide celebration of the 200th anniversary of the birth of the modern railway.
It comes after the teenage artists were taken on journeys by members of Yorkshire Coast Community Rail Partnership so they could gain inspiration and become more confident travelling by train.
Kerry Peters, regional director for Northern, said: “We’re seriously impressed with the quality of the artwork that has been produced as part of the Railway 200 celebrations.
“These talented students and their families can feel a real sense of pride when they see their posters displayed at their local stations in the coming months.”
Northern, which funded the project, also took 21 of the college students to visit the Houses of Parliament earlier this month, so they could meet their MPs and discuss the work they have been doing to improve their local stations.
Students from East Riding College were provided with free travel to London by Hull Trains.
Claire Haigh, Head of Faculty at the college, said: “We love to give our students real-world experience leading to the best possible opportunities in their future careers and education.
“So we jumped at the chance for them to work towards this fantastic live brief for Northern, supported by Yorkshire Coast Community Rail Partnership.
“The brief gave them the chance to comprehensively research the railways and Sheffield as a tourist destination.
“Bringing in the historic designs of previous posters broadened the project out even more into the history of graphic design.”
She added: “We think the posters they have produced are a wonderful advertisement not only for the railways but for the skills, insight and above all creativity these students are developing at East Riding College. I wish them all a huge well done for delivering really exceptional pieces of artwork for this brief.”
Paul Jackson, Head of Customer and Stakeholder Engagement at Hull Trains, said: “At Hull Trains, being part of the community really matters to us.
“We love working with local organisations and partners, especially when it comes to supporting education and young people.
“Engaging with students like those from East Riding College is a fantastic way to show how important rail connections are, not just for travel, but for opportunity, growth and future careers.
“We hope they had a brilliant day with us and we can’t wait to welcome them back onboard again soon.”railway
27 March 2025RAILWAY INTERNATIONAL
The Matterhorn Gotthard Railway And Stadler Present World'S Fastest Rack-And-Pinion RailwayAsk For More Information…railway
27 March 2025Rail Business Daily
Steam & Whistle Gastro Pub Experience Arrives At Great Central Railway This WeekendGreat Central Railway has announced that it is launching an exciting new dining concept.
The Steam & Whistle is a gastro pub experience that the operator hopes will delight passengers on selected Saturday evenings from 29 March.
Combining vintage rail travel with gastro pub-style cuisine, The Steam & Whistle offers passengers an opportunity to enjoy a three-course meal while soaking up the views. All food is high-quality and locally sourced.
Great Central Railway said the menu would feature “mouth-watering” dishes, including:
• Starters: Freshly Baked Focaccia & Charcuterie to share• Mains: Slow Cooked Lamb Shoulder with a Cheddar & Rosemary Dumpling, Fish Pie, or Spiced Red Lentil & Vegetable Curry• Desserts: Warm Portuguese Tart or Wild Berry Delice
Prices start from £55 per person and include a ticket to ride the railway on the day of the booking, giving guests the opportunity to explore and work up an appetite.For reservations and more information, visit https://www.gcrailway.co.uk/the-steam-whistle/ or call 01509 632323.railway
27 March 2025Railway Technology
Alstom Supplies 500Th Electric Locomotive To Indian RailwaysFrench rolling stock manufacturer Alstom has supplied the 500th electric locomotive to Indian Railways.
The 500th Prima T8 WAG12B locomotive, entirely manufactured in India, was dispatched from Alstom’s manufacturing facility in Madhepura, Bihar.
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Alstom is providing 800 high-powered, double-section Prima T8 locomotives with a 12,000hp capacity for freight services, under a €3.5bn ($3.7bn) contract.
These locomotives can pull approximately 6,000t rakes at speeds up to 120km/h.
Featuring Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBT) based propulsion technology, the e-locomotives offer significant energy savings through regenerative braking.
Alstom has also established two “ultramodern” maintenance depots in Saharanpur and Nagpur, equipped with predictive technologies for enhanced availability and reduced maintenance costs of these freight locomotives.
Alstom India managing director Olivier Loison said: “Our WAG 12B electric locomotives powered by cutting-edge technology are fully manufactured in India and provide enhanced speed, efficiency, and reliability of freight haulage across the country.
“The delivery of our 500th e-loco underscores our commitment to modernise India’s railway infrastructure, especially for freight, thereby driving economic growth.”
The WAG-12B locomotives are produced at the integrated greenfield manufacturing site in Madhepura, Bihar, a joint venture between Alstom and Indian Railways.
This initiative is said to represent the “largest” Foreign Direct Investment in the Indian rail sector.
The facility has a production capacity of 120 locomotives per year, with Alstom achieving nearly 90% localisation.
This project is an example of the ‘Make in India’ initiative, with more than 85% of components sourced locally, according to Alstom.
It places India among a select group of countries that can produce high-horsepower locomotives in-house and enhances technological expertise within the nation, the company added.
The e-locomotives have already transported key commodities such as coal, cement, food grains, fertilisers, petrochemical products, minerals, and postal parcels over 120 million kilometres across India.
Recently, Alstom signed a two-year contract with Swedish state-owned rail operator SJ for the maintenance of night trains.
The agreement covers the maintenance of 75 carriages and 12 RC6 locomotives servicing routes between Stockholm, Umea, Lulea, and Narvik.railway
27 March 2025Railway Technology
India’S Rvnl Secures Electrification Upgrade Contract From Central RailwayIndian public sector enterprise Rail Vikas Nigam (RVNL) has secured a contract valued at Rs1.15bn ($13.5m) from Central Railway’s Nagpur division for upgrading the railway electrification infrastructure.
The contract involves the modification of the overhead electrification system to enhance the capacity of the Itarsi-Amla section to meet a 3,000mt loading target.
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The project, which is aimed at transitioning from a 1x25kV electric traction system to a 2x25kV system, will be executed over two years.
RVNL also received an Rs1.35bn ($15.8m) engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract from Central Railway in February.
The contract includes the design, supply, testing, erection and commissioning of a 132/55kV traction substation and related equipment for the Bhusaval-Khandwa sections to meet the 3,000mt loading target.
Additionally, RVNL received an EPC contract worth Rs1.56bn ($18.2m) from South Western Railway earlier this month.
The contract entails the design, supply, erection, testing, and commissioning of a 2X25kV overhead electrification (OHE) and power supply installation (PSI) system.
The contract also encompasses electrical, engineering, and telecommunication works for the Rayadurga-Topavagada section of the TK-RDG railway line. RVNL is expected to complete this project within 18 months.railway
27 March 2025Railway News
Alstom Delivers 500Th Electric Locomotive To Indian RailwaysIn partnership with Indian Railways, Alstom has delivered the 500th electric locomotive from its manufacturing site in Madhepura, Bihar.
This achievement is part of a contract for 800 high-powered double-section Prima T8 WAG-12B locomotives, each with a capacity of 12,000 horsepower (9 MW). These new vehicles are expected to enhance freight services across India.
The locomotive was officially dispatched in the presence of key dignitaries, including Manish Kumar, Chief Administrative Officer of Indian Railways, and senior officials from Alstom.
The WAG-12B locomotives are designed to transport heavy freight loads of approximately 6,000 tonnes at speeds of up to 120 km/h.
Alstom’s manufacturing facility in Madhepura, one of India’s largest integrated greenfield sites, was developed as part of a joint venture between Alstom and Indian Railways. The facility has an annual production capacity of 120 locomotives and has achieved close to 90% localisation, in line with the ‘Make in India’ initiative. More than 85% of the locomotive components are sourced from within India, reinforcing the country’s domestic manufacturing capabilities.
Our WAG 12B electric locomotives powered by cutting-edge technology are fully manufactured in India and provide enhanced speed, efficiency, and reliability of freight haulage across the country. The delivery of our 500th e-loco underscores our commitment to modernise India's railway infrastructure especially for freight, thereby driving economic growth.
The locomotives will strengthen freight movement across India, transporting key commodities such as coal, cement, food grains, fertilisers, petrochemicals, and minerals over extensive distances. They are equipped with Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBT)-based propulsion technology, which improves energy efficiency through regenerative braking. This technology reduces energy consumption, enhances acceleration efficiency, and minimises traction noise, contributing to cost savings and reduced congestion on the rail network.
In addition to manufacturing, Alstom has established modern maintenance depots in Saharanpur and Nagpur, incorporating predictive technologies to ensure operational efficiency and reduce maintenance costs.railway
26 March 2025