Rail industry news covering freight railroads, passenger rail, safety, labor, and infrastructure investment.
Germany's network regulator ruled that Deutsche Bahn must reserve at least a quarter of capacity on key long-distance routes for competitors, confirming a preliminary ruling. The decision, which drew sharp criticism from Deutsche Bahn and states, paves the way for Italian rail company Italo to enter the German market in 2028.
Network Rail imposed a nationwide ban on steam trains due to wildfire risk during Britain's heatwave, following a steam train believed to have sparked a Cheshire wildfire. The ban aligns with Network Rail's fire risk policy restricting coal-fired steam engines during dry weather. Fire services have responded to 342 wildfires this year, with experts linking extreme weather to climate change.
Transport Canada and Employment and Social Development Canada are investigating potential Railway Safety Act and health and safety violations after a CN Rail crew was evacuated from a train engulfed in flames near Armstrong, Ontario. The crew was treated for smoke inhalation. Teamsters Canada president Paul Boucher said the incident should not have happened as the fire had been burning for five weeks.
This commentary argues that domestic intermodal rail container volumes are experiencing historic growth, driven by shippers converting from truck to rail earlier than usual. It cites record intermodal volumes from J.B. Hunt and data showing intermodal is 30% cheaper than truckload, suggesting a structural shift in freight demand.
A preliminary investigation into the Murshidabad train accident has ruled out signal glitch and blamed human error by the gateman. The gateman and section supervisor were suspended; the gateman was arrested. Investigators are probing whether he was under the influence of alcohol.
Central Railway will introduce 10 new 15-car local train services on the Mumbai suburban network from July 20, 2026, replacing existing 12-car services on the CSMT-Karjat South East line. The upgrade increases passenger carrying capacity by 25% per service, bringing the total number of 15-car services to 32.
This commentary argues that Federal Railroad Administrator David Fink's personal history as a fifth-generation railroader uniquely positions him to guide local rails through the mega-merger era. It contends that understanding the historical decline of the Pennsylvania Railroad and the government's role in creating Conrail is essential for navigating current industry challenges.
The Canadian Transportation Agency approved the Lac-Mégantic rail bypass project, allowing construction of a 12.5-kilometre reroute away from downtown. Federal Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon called the authorization a major step forward, while some residents opposed the project due to environmental concerns and land expropriations.
The editorial argues that California's high-speed rail project is a costly boondoggle that has wasted billions without laying track, and contends that the state should abandon the project and redirect funds to more pressing needs. It cites federal criticism and rising cost estimates to support its case.
This commentary argues that Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner route in California offers a scenic, affordable, and relaxing alternative to driving or flying. It highlights the route's panoramic ocean views, growing ridership, and recent service expansion, suggesting that travelers increasingly prefer the train over other modes of transport.