British intercity rail disruptions could last for weeks after high speed trains are sidelined
Disruptions to British intercity rail service are continuing for a third day and could last for week after Hitachi high speed trainsets were removed from service over cracks were found in the suspension of some trains. The Guardian reports Great Western Railway is advising passengers not to travel if possible because of extremely limited service on its routes served by the Hitachi 800 trainsets, while the London North Eastern Railway is running reduced service between London and Edinburgh, Scotland, although much of its fleet has passed safety inspections. Britain’s rail minister, Chris Heaton-Harris has warned the problem could lead to “a significant period of prolonged disruption,” and asked operators to use alternative equipment to help restore service. The problems began Saturday when Great Western said it had found cracks in “more than one” of its 93 Hitachi trainsets [see “Digest: British rail service disrupted …,” Trains News Wire, May 8, 2021]
Buffalo light rail rebuild program nears completion, years late
Buffalo’s Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority is nearing completion of a rebuild of its light rail fleet, more than five years after the program was supposed to be finished. The Buffalo News reports work is now under way on the last vehicle in the 27-car fleet, which will conclude a $45 million process that has stripped the cars down to the shell and rebuilt them. The program began in 2004, but the original contractor went bankrupt, leading to delays and ownership disputes that dragged out the program. The rebuilds passed through several companies before completion by Hitachi Rail. The cars, built by Japan’s Tokyu Car Co. in 1984, are expected to operate for another 15 years.
CN recognizes customers, supply-chain partners for environmental sustainability
Canadian National has recognized 55 customers and supply-chain partners for environmental sustainability practices under its EcoConnexions Partnership Program, for companies committed to reducing their environmental footprint. In recognition of the efforts, the railroad said it would collaborate with Tree Canada to plant 100,000 trees this year in the U.S. and Canada. “Through our EcoConnexions Partnership Program, we continue to deepen our customer relationships, as well as collaborate and learn from each other, “ Mark Lerner, CN vice president, marketing and business development, said in a press release. “CN is proud to recognize these companies and supply chain partners for their commitment to a more sustainable future.” A list of the companies is available here.
