Rail crash investigators have released a significant update following a tragic collision between two trains in Powys, Wales. The incident, which occurred last month, resulted in the death of a passenger and serious injuries to four others. The collision involved two Transport for Wales (TfW) trains near Talerddig in Powys on October 21.
The passenger who lost his life in the collision was identified as 66-year-old David Tudor Evans, known as Tudor. While the official cause of death has not been disclosed, it is suspected that he suffered a heart attack. Additionally, four individuals sustained serious injuries, with 11 others requiring hospital treatment as a result of the crash.
Following the collision, an immediate investigation was launched. According to the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB), new details have emerged regarding the incident. The update from the RAIB highlighted that sand hoses on one of the trains were found to be blocked. These hoses are part of a system, similar to anti-lock brakes, designed to release sand when wheel slide is detected during braking.
Initial investigations indicated that the westbound train, 1J25, had been scheduled to stop in the loop at Talerddig to allow the eastbound train, 1S71, to pass. Data from the on-train data recorder (OTDR) fitted to train 1J25 revealed that the driver applied service braking to slow down the train as it approached the loop. Approximately 40 seconds after the initial brake application, an emergency brake demand was recorded and remained in effect until the collision occurred.
The RAIB report stated that wheel slide was initiated during service braking and persisted during emergency braking. Despite the train slowing down while passing through the loop at Talerddig, it did not come to a stop before colliding with train 1S71. There was conflicting evidence regarding the speeds of the two trains at the point of collision.
Further investigations by RAIB involved measuring wheel/rail adhesion levels along the route from the approach to Talerddig loop to the collision site, revealing low adhesion levels. An inspection of the sanding system on train 1J25 indicated that the sand hoses on the leading vehicle were blocked, preventing the discharge of sand during braking.
The ongoing investigation aims to determine the sequence of events that led to the collision. It will examine various factors, including the actions of those involved, the performance of braking systems, and the management of low adhesion risks on the line.
As the investigation continues, RAIB is committed to understanding all aspects of the incident to prevent similar accidents in the future. Updates will be provided as more information is gathered.
The tragic collision has sparked concerns and raised questions about railway safety protocols and maintenance practices. Authorities are focused on ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers and preventing such incidents from occurring again in the future.