Rail operators have apologised after an interim report into last Thursday's derailment near Lewes in East Sussex found a track defect on the approach to where the train left the tracks, injuring 30 people on the hottest day of the year so far.
Rail operators have apologised after an interim report into last Thursday’s derailment in East Sussex found a track defect on the approach to where the train derailed. The incident, near Lewes, injured 30 people and occurred on the hottest day of the year so far.
According to the Guardian, an interim report by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) said CCTV images showed a “track geometry irregularity” existed before the incident occurred.
The report indicated that the defect was present on the approach to the point where the train left the tracks, raising questions about the condition of the line ahead of the derailment.
Network Rail and GTR, the owner of Southern, issued an apology following the release of the findings. The RAIB’s interim report represents an early stage in the investigation into the causes of the incident.
The timing of the derailment on the hottest day of the year so far has drawn attention to the possibility of heat-buckled track, with the interim report referencing the track defect visible in CCTV images before the incident.
Why it matters
Rail safety on hot days is a growing concern as extreme temperatures can affect track integrity. The finding that a defect existed before the derailment raises important questions about track monitoring and maintenance for passengers who rely on the network.