Rail industry news covering freight railroads, passenger rail, safety, labor, and infrastructure investment.
The European Public Prosecutor's Office launched a second investigation into potential misuse of EU funds for high-speed rail safety in Spain. This inquiry follows the Adamuz crash that killed 46 people and the earlier Urda disaster, which prompted Transport Minister Oscar Puente to resign ahead of the November election.
Union Pacific CEO Vena characterized his previous threat to raise rates for shippers opposing the merger as "humor" after the Surface Transportation Board ordered the video released. He denied making a serious threat, claiming supply chain costs will be lower with a seamless railroad.
Washington and Oregon transportation officials are seeking public input on the Cascadia High-Speed Rail proposal to address projected population growth and congestion along Interstate 5. The $55.7 million planning effort aims to shape routes and speeds for potential 200 mph service connecting Seattle, Portland, and Vancouver.
Andrew Gilligan argues that HS2's massive budget overruns and reduced scope stem from a fundamental misalignment between its high-speed branding and the actual need for rail capacity. He contends that political decisions prioritized speed over practical utility, ignoring earlier expert recommendations to focus on improving existing infrastructure.
FTAI Infrastructure CEO Kenneth Nicholson stated the company delivered record revenue and EBITDA driven by railroad operations while targeting end-of-month closure for the Long Ridge sale. Management expects priorities outside of rail to contribute to future performance alongside the core business.
Rail operators c2c and Network Rail Anglia have apologized to eight MPs and agreed to meet after acknowledging service standards fell significantly below expectations. The apology follows weeks of disruption caused by a freight derailment in Barking and other operational challenges, with leadership pledging infrastructure strengthening to improve resilience for commuters.
Tanzania and Angola have agreed to connect their railway networks across Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, linking the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Announced by both presidents in Dar es Salaam, the initiative aims to integrate the Lobito Corridor with Tanzania's transport network, though specific costs and timelines remain undefined.
The author contends that Spain's public confidence in its rail network has been severely damaged by two recent deadly train crashes involving state-owned Renfe and private operator Iryo. The piece highlights the tragic loss of life and the systemic safety concerns revealed by these accidents.
Following the fatal accident inquiry into the 2020 Stonehaven crash, RMT Scotland organiser Gordon Martin urged Network Rail to bring infrastructure works in-house. He stated that ending outsourcing is the only way to guarantee such tragedies do not recur, despite existing safety recommendations.