Train derailments prompt safety advisories, investigations across Montana, Colorado, UK

A recent report by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has identified that a passenger train derailment near Walton-on-Thames was caused by redundant rail left on the track by a Colas Rail work crew. The incident occurred on March 4, 2024, as the train was traveling at 85 mph, resulting in the front coach derailing. The investigation revealed that inadequate supervision and failure to properly brief engineers led to the oversight. RAIB has recommended that Colas Rail improve its processes for handling redundant materials and that Network Rail review its standards for managing complex work sites. In a separate incident, a train derailment near Poplar, Montana, is currently under cleanup, with BNSF crews responding and the main track expected to reopen soon. Community members are advised to maintain a safe distance from the area as cleanup efforts proceed.