Train safety system delayed until 2013
Rail infrastructure operator Network Rail is planning to delay the introduction of a key train safety system for the second time in three months, a leading technology magazine has claimed today.
“Computing” magazine reports that the roll-out of the GSM-R communications system is to be put back from 2010 to 2013, despite having been put back from 2008 to 2010 just months ago.
The magazine alleges that Network Rail has decided to delay implementation in order to make GSM-R more cost-effective.
However, the company has also acknowledged that its existing in-train communication system, Can Secure Radio (CSR), could be vulnerable to interference from other mobile telecoms from 2006.
“Other users may be granted access to these frequencies as early as 2006, potentially resulting in interference in driver-to-signaller communications,” Network Rail’s 2004 business plan states.
CSR’s UHF frequency range is due to be reassessed and potentially reallocated by Ofcom in 2006.
Conservative transport spokesperson Theresa May condemned the delay, warning: “These improvements to the communications system were proposed as essential to the safety of our railways. However, key safety improvements are facing unacceptable delays.”
RMT general secretary Bob Crow told the magazine: “The suggestion that the train radio system frequency might be shared with third parties is profoundly worrying and we will be seeking assurances that steps are being taken to ensure there is no possibility of interference.”
