The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has released its report today into the derailment of a train at Kemble, Gloucestershire on 15 January 2007.
The full report into the incident is available here:
A summary of the key points from the reports is included below -
Summary
On 15 January 2007 a passenger train operated by First Great Western was approaching Kemble station from the south when it derailed causing minor damage to the infrastructure and to the train. There were no injuries. Train services were disrupted and the line was closed until 18 January 2007 to enable repairs to be undertaken.
The derailment was caused by debris on the track following the collapse of a wall immediately to the north of the railway. Contributory factors include heavier than average rainfall during December 2006 and January 2007, the poor drainage of the cutting slope and a reclassification of the cutting by Network Rail, which led to less frequent examinations.
Recommendations
The RAIB has made two recommendations as a result of this incident. Both relate to the management of wall structures and their infrastructure.
The RAIB are conducting a further investigation into the management of earthworks by Network Rail and issues relating to the earthworks at Kemble identified during this investigation will be taken forward as part of this further investigation.
Notes to Editors
1. The sole purpose of RAIB investigations is to prevent future accidents and incidents and improve railway safety. The RAIB does not establish blame, liability or carry out prosecutions.
2. For media enquiries please call 020 7944 6984.
Newsdate: 27 March 2008
