Train derails in Surrey after maintenance oversight, report reveals

A South Western Railway train derailed near Walton-on-Thames on March 4, 2024, after striking a 2.5-meter piece of rail left on the tracks, while traveling at approximately 85mph. Fortunately, all 100 passengers aboard were safely evacuated with no injuries reported. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) found that the rail was accidentally left by maintenance crews who had failed to properly supervise their work and did not conduct adequate checks before reopening the track. The incident caused significant disruptions, halting services on the South West Main Line into Waterloo. RAIB has since recommended that companies improve their processes for clearing redundant materials and enhance supervision during maintenance work. The report underscores the necessity of effective risk management in railway operations, particularly during night work when the likelihood of leaving objects on tracks increases.