Since the southern England tunnels were flooded on New Year’s morning, Eurostar had to suspend all its operations. This led to the cancellation of all the trains.

Thousands of travellers had to endure appalling conditions as a result of the disruptions to the scheduled transits. But the organization was ultimately able to bring this dire situation under control. 

Eurostar, which is a popular high-speed railway service organization, provides services in Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels.

Prior to Christmas, the French labour unions called for a strike, and the Met Office issued nationwide yellow weather advisories for ice, rain, and snow. Following all of that came the cancellation of trains on 30th of December. 

Almost 30,000 people were consequently affected by the last-minute cancellations

Due to these uneven situations, travellers had no choice but to remain stranded on mainland Europe. Those who were at St Pancras, meanwhile, were trying to locate hotel rooms and, in turn, make alternative travel arrangements. 

The newlywed couple encountered this obstacle, and one Christopher in particular informed the media that the plans for New Year’s Eve were ruined. 

The Met Office had issued weather warnings for south England, which includes the Isle of Wight, the south west, and Wales’s southwest region.  

In light of the subsequent strong winds and torrential rain, people were advised to be ready.  

The spokesman for High Speed 1 apologized before the media to the people for the inconvenience caused. 

The company’s officials are still unable to determine what caused the flooding. Tunnels close to Ebbsfleet International in Kent became clogged with water, obstructing the high-speed rail route.

Despite this, no proof of the pipe burst that caused the flood to occur has been discovered. 

A video that shows water flowing out of a pipe and eventually submerging the tracks in a tunnel has been shared and shared repeatedly on social media platforms. 

The services relating to the travel disruption were stalled due to strike, storms and other issues. 

The scene at London St Pancras appeared to be a little less chaotic on Sunday than what it had been the day before. 

In addition to this, Eurostar told the media that there had been massive flooding in the Thames tunnel, which has been finally brought under control by Network Rail High Speed. 

[Image Source: Euronews.com]

Tens of thousands of rail travellers are facing a tumultuous start to the New Year’s Eve weekend as extensive disruptions hit Eurostar and Southeastern train services. The cancellation of dozens of Eurostar trains between London St Pancras International and Continental Europe has been prompted by flooding on the crucial High Speed 1 line.

Eurostar Disruptions

At 4 am, engineers declared that no trains could traverse the tunnel beneath the Thames east of London, leading to a cascade of cancellations. Passengers arriving at Eurostar’s terminal were informed of the cancellation of all trains scheduled before 10 am due to an infrastructure issue. Eurostar staff emphasized the unavailability of standard class seats for the entire day and extended apologies for any inconvenience caused. The train operator reported severe delays and cancellations, underscoring their collaboration with Network Rail to ensure customer safety and security.

Southeastern Train Woes

The impact of flooding extends to Britain’s sole high-speed railway line from London to Kent, affecting Southeastern trains. The line from London St Pancras International to Ebbsfleet and Ashford is expected to remain blocked for a significant portion of Saturday morning, with disruptions persisting until midday. Domestic passengers are urged to consider alternative, slower train routes to and from London Charing Cross and Cannon Street. Compounding the travel chaos, the Southeastern line to London Victoria is closed until the New Year due to ongoing engineering work.

Thameslink Line and New Year’s Eve Warnings

Passengers at London St Pancras relying on the Thameslink line connecting Bedford and Luton with Gatwick and Brighton are warned of major disruptions extending into the morning of New Year’s Day. Staff shortages contribute to this warning, with passengers advised to brace for significant inconveniences during the afternoon and evening of New Year’s Eve, including a complete overnight service shutdown.

Broader Impact and Weather Challenges

The repercussions are not confined to celebratory New Year revelers in central London; many airline passengers and staff depend on overnight trains for crucial connections to Gatwick and Luton airports. National Rail forewarns of anticipated further cancellations throughout the weekend. Meanwhile, the UK faces additional challenges with strong gusts, snow, and heavy rain following Storm Gerrit, accompanied by yellow weather warnings for ice and adverse conditions in Scotland.

Network Rail engineers have been tirelessly working non-stop to restore the railway system in regions severely affected by Storm Gerrit.

Inspection teams have been diligently assessing various routes across Scotland, reopening sections of the track deemed safe, including the West Highland line and the Aberdeen – Inverness line.

Travelers are urged to verify their journeys before departure, as disruptions are anticipated to persist on several lines across the country until at least tomorrow (Friday 29 December). Affected routes include:

• Inverness – Wick/Thurso
• Aberdeen – Dundee
• Dundee – Cupar
• Glasgow – Carlisle via Dumfries

The Cupar to Dundee line remains closed due to a landslip triggered by heavy rainfall on Wednesday, although services are operational between Dundee and Perth.

Efforts are underway to clear over 100 tons of debris from the Dumfries to Kilmarnock line, addressing flooding and a landslip near Sanquhar.

Teams are addressing a swift water flow onto the track at Kirkton of Kinellar, near Dyce in Aberdeenshire. They are diverting the water and eliminating a significant amount of silt before train services can resume.

“Our dedicated teams have been actively examining and fixing the railway, with a primary focus on critical tasks such as managing floods and clearing debris to guarantee passenger safety.

We are committed to swiftly and securely reinstating the remaining impacted routes

“Working closely with our partners at Network Rail, our teams have been putting in exhaustive efforts to enable travel wherever possible. Nevertheless, difficult conditions in different regions have led to significant disruptions. Ensuring the safety of our employees and passengers continues to be our highest concern.”

“We apologize to customers inconvenienced by this storm-related disruption to their journeys.

“Most of the network is now operational. Nonetheless, we advise customers to check their journey details before commencing travel and to stay updated via our website, mobile app, or social media channels for real-time information.”

Darren and Rachael, a couple from Essex, received a surprise engagement while at Birmingham New Street station just before Christmas. As onlookers, including Mr. and Mrs. Claus and other passengers, watched in astonishment, Darren proposed to Rachael on Santa’s sleigh!

Originally in town to visit the Frankfurt German Markets with friends, the couple had planned to make the special moment happen at the Christmas markets. However, when they encountered Santa’s sleigh at the station, Darren swiftly changed his plans, realizing it was the ideal setting for Rachael, who adores Christmas.

Rachael, employed in finance and hailing from Brentwood, Essex, and Darren, a ground worker also from Essex, are ecstatic about their engagement. While they initially intended to propose at the Christmas markets, the unexpected sighting of Santa’s sleigh made the moment even more magical.

Darren said: “Rachael just loves Christmas and this couldn’t have worked out any better. We were with our friends when I spotted Santa’s sleigh and we then realised the photographer was our friend’s wedding photographer, so it was easy to get her over there without any questions. Better still, we would have a photo to remember it by! I was extremely nervous knowing I was going to propose to such a beautiful girl but she’s absolutely the one for me”.

Rachael who said yes to the proposal said: “I was completely shocked yet over the moon! He did so well with the surprise and beautiful ring! I’m so happy for our future together and the celebrations yet to come. Darren really is the perfect guy for me.”

The couple is eagerly diving into wedding preparations and intends to exchange vows within the next three years. In the meantime, they’re cherishing their engagement celebrations with loved ones.

Craig Stenning, Network Rail station manager at Birmingham New Street station, said: “The meet and greet experience with Mr and Mrs Claus has been really popular at the station throughout December and we were delighted that Darren chose this as his backdrop for their special moment. On behalf of everyone at Network Rail and New Street station, I’d like to wish them a happy engagement and all the best for the future.”

Birmingham-based events and production company OPUS (Outdoor Places Unusual Spaces) managed the delightful Mr. and Mrs. Claus meet-and-greet experience at New Street station. This free event, available on weekends throughout December, allowed guests to take home a free polaroid picture as a cherished keepsake.

In a tumultuous turn of events, Storm Gerrit wreaked havoc across the United Kingdom, leaving a trail of destruction that included a shocking train collision, widespread flooding, and significant travel disruptions. 

The incident occurred when a ScotRail InterCity train collided with a fallen tree near Broughty Ferry, causing “horrendous” damage to the driver’s cab. Glasgow MSP Paul Sweeney shared harrowing images of the aftermath, revealing the extent of the destruction. 

The front of the train, particularly the driver’s cab, bore the brunt of the impact, with shattered windows and debris strewn across the floor. Despite the severity of the collision, the driver emerged unharmed, a testament to the robust safety measures in place.

The train collision was just one facet of the chaos unleashed by Storm Gerrit. The storm’s trifecta of severe weather, signaling faults, and overrunning engineering works led to widespread travel disruptions. Avanti West Coast, one of the major rail operators, advised customers against travel until Friday, leaving crowds of passengers stranded at London’s King’s Cross.

The Met Office issued several yellow weather warnings for strong winds, heavy rain, and snow across England, Scotland, and Wales. Network Rail Scotland warned that the disruption was set to continue as they needed daylight to inspect routes for damage caused by flooding and fallen trees.

As a result of Storm Gerrit’s impact, a major incident was declared on Scotland’s A9 in the Highlands, where heavy snow left drivers stranded. Power cuts affected over 27,000 homes in Scotland, with some areas expected to be without power until Friday.

The chaos extended beyond the rail network, affecting ferry services and air travel. Condor Ferries canceled high-speed services between the Channel Islands and Brittany’s St Malo due to the storm’s adverse conditions.

The aftermath of Storm Gerrit serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and potent nature of winter storms. As recovery efforts are underway, authorities are urging residents to exercise caution and stay updated on the evolving situation. Travelers are advised to check for service updates and road conditions, as the impact of the storm continues to unfold.

Scotland Railway will enforce speed restrictions due to the impending arrival of storm Gerrit, bringing high winds, heavy rain, and snow across the country.

The Met Office has issued weather warnings covering most of Scotland, predicting rainfall between 20-45mm within a 24-hour period and gusts ranging from 60-70mph in certain regions.

Passengers are strongly advised to review their travel plans for Wednesday and Thursday morning, as service cancellations and delays are likely due to the severe weather conditions. Speed limitations are scheduled for specific segments along various lines:

• Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh Waverley
• Berwick to Edinburgh Waverley
• Edinburgh Waverley to Dundee
• Glasgow Central to Stranraer
• Aberdeen to Inverness
• Dundee to Aberdeen
• Perth to Inverness
• Stirling to Perth
• Inverness to Wick
• Dingwall to Kyle of Lochalsh
• Craigendoran to Fort William
• Fort William to Mallaig
• Crianlarich to Oban
• Whifflet to Dunblane
• Gretna to Glasgow Central

The heavy rain can trigger landslides or erode the ballast supporting the tracks, while strong winds heighten the risk of trees and loose objects obstructing the railway.

Reducing train speeds during adverse weather allows for quicker responses in case of track blockages.

Network Rail specialized meteorologists will continually monitor the situation. Additional personnel and specialized equipment are on standby to address disruptions caused by the weather conditions.

Liam Sumpter, Network Rail Scotland’s route director, said: “The safety of customers and colleagues is our first priority which is why we’re having to slow down trains.

“High winds may lead to trees or debris falling onto the tracks, potentially damaging infrastructure and blocking lines. Meanwhile, heavy rainfall can cause floods and landslides.

“Our teams are diligently preparing for the challenging weather ahead. We urge passengers to check their travel plans,” said a Network Rail spokesperson.

Phil Campbell, ScotRail customer operations director, said: “Unfortunately, we expect disruption to our services due to the adverse weather, and customers can expect some changes to their journeys.

“We are collaborating closely with Network Rail Scotland to maintain travel as much as possible. However, passengers should anticipate longer travel times and potential cancellations.

“Travelers should verify their journey status through the ScotRail app, website, or social media channels before heading out,” the spokesperson added.

Over the Christmas period, Network Rail teams carried out vital engineering work between Welwyn Garden City and Hitchin as part of the billion-pound East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP).

Teams of engineers worked around the clock from Christmas Eve to the early hours of today (Wednesday 27 December) to install new track, upgrade existing overhead line equipment, and test newly installed equipment which will help the East Coast Main Line deliver a digital future.

The landmark project is a first-of-its-kind on a UK mainline railway and will eventually see traditional lineside signals replaced by digital signalling which is fed to a screen inside a train driver’s cab.

As a result, passengers will be able to travel on a more reliable and resilient rail network which is kinder to the environment.

Sarah Hewlett, Network Rail’s Programme Manager for East Coast Digital Project, said: “Our engineers worked incredibly hard over the festive period to deliver these vital upgrades which will change the way that trains will run in the future.

“Digital signalling will make our rail network more reliable and more resilient for our passengers, as well as decarbonising it.

“We want to thank passengers for their patience and understanding while the work was carried out.”

A spokesperson on behalf of train operators said: “Our colleagues worked tirelessly to keep customers on the move on Christmas Eve, ahead of the usual Christmas shut down of services.

“A huge thank you to all our customers for their patience while their journeys looked a little differently.”

Further upgrade work as part of ECDP is set to take place on the weekends of 6 & 7 and 13 & 14 January. There will be changes to train services and passengers are encouraged to check their journey before travelling through National Rail Enquiries or with their train operator.

Renewal of the railway track near the village of Cemmaes, close to Machynlleth, is scheduled to commence post the festive season. This initiative aims to enhance the reliability of the railway system.

Network Rail, in partnership with Colas Rail, will initiate the track renewal project starting on Saturday, January 6th. The renewal process will span across four weekends as follows:

• From 11:05 pm on Saturday, January 6th, to 5:55 am on Tuesday, January 9th.
• From 12:40 am on Saturday, January 13th, to 4:20 am on Monday, January 15th.
• From 12:40 am on Saturday, January 20th, to 4:20 am on Monday, January 22nd.
• From 11:05 pm on Friday, February 16th, to 5:55 am on Monday, February 19th.

This scheduled work during weekends is intended to minimize disruption along the Cambrian line. Transport for Wales will operate bus services instead of trains between Newtown and Aberystwyth during the maintenance periods. Passengers are advised to check for travel updates and expect replacement services to potentially be busier than usual.

To plan their journeys, individuals can utilize the National Rail Enquiries Journey planner.

Nick Millington, Network Rail Wales and Borders route director, said: “This work is vital in ensuring we can continue to run a safe and reliable railway.

He acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the closure but highlighted efforts to minimize disruption. Millington thanked passengers for their understanding and urged them to verify their travel plans beforehand.

Thick fog caused severe detours to train and airline services in Delhi on Wednesday due to the difficult weather. Commuters have experienced inconvenience due to the limited visibility, which has affected the schedule of roughly 110 flights and many trains.

Smothered by a layer of fog, New Delhi was less visible, and the railway network had operating difficulties. The result was delays for passengers at different train stations.

Fog has covered the nation’s capital amid dropping temperatures, causing reduced visibility that has impacted train and airline schedules.

Prior to this, the Northern Railways stated that 14 trains in the northern zone were impacted by Tuesday’s thick fog in the nation’s capital. The Chief Public Relations Officer told the media that 14 trains relating to the Northern Zone of Indian Railways were affected due to fog or less visibility.

There was almost no vision on Wednesday morning as a thick blanket of fog covered sections of Delhi-NCR. In the national capital region, the unrelenting cold wave continued, with lows as low as 7 degrees Celsius. North India as a whole is experiencing extremely cold weather; therefore, Delhi is not the only place experiencing extreme cold.

Significantly, CAT III designates a class of sensor landing systems that permits aircraft to land in low visibility environments like fog, snow, and rain.

The intense fog in the nation’s capital could have negative effects on people’s health, the IMD told the media about the concerns about fog. The clog-stricken situations contain particulate matter and other pollutants and in case exposed, it gets lodged in the lungs, clogging them and decreasing their functional capacity, which increases episodes of wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath.

 India Gate, Dhaula Kuan, Barapullah, and the Delhi-Noida border region were all completely covered in thick fog when viewed in the morning.

Fog and poor visibility caused delays for several trains coming into and going out of New Delhi.

A layer of dense fog is still present over portions of northwest India and adjacent central India, including Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh, according to satellite images from 6:45 AM, according to the IMD.

Amtrak launches a major upgrade for its Long Distance fleet, backed by Biden’s infrastructure law, heralding a new era in cross-country rail travel.

This historic, multi-billion-dollar acquisition signifies the beginning of a new era in equipping a fleet that is essential for cross-country train services. The project is enabled by financial backing from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law endorsed by President Biden and the Congress.

“Amtrak’s Long Distance network is crucial for both transportation and economic connections across numerous communities,” remarked Amtrak Board Chair Tony Coscia. “With a renewed fleet, Amtrak is poised to modernize and enhance our service, adapting to both present and future customer demands.”

The renewal will introduce a modernized Amtrak offering, aligning with current and future market needs. This includes elevating the customer experience, redefining onboard accessibility, enhancing operational effectiveness, and focusing on environmental sustainability and resilience to increase patronage.

“Renewing our Long Distance train fleet represents a rare chance to revitalize our famous routes with a fleet that is modern, accessible, and eco-friendly,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris.

This move follows a Request for Information (RFI) issued in December 2022 to potential railcar manufacturers, outlining the scope of the fleet replacement. The responses received early in 2023 helped shape the current RFP.

The RFP specifies enhancements to key aspects of Long Distance service, such as seating, private accommodations, dining services, accessibility, and overall travel experience. The next stages include vendor selection, final design, development, and production over the coming years, with fleet delivery expected to start in the early 2030s.

“The Federal Railroad Administration is committed to the significance of intercity passenger rail, including Long Distance service, within America’s transportation ecosystem,” stated FRA Administrator Amit Bose. “Millions rely on this service annually as an alternative to crowded highways and airports, and they merit a contemporary, safe, and convenient travel experience.”

This RFP is part of Amtrak’s broader strategy to enhance the Long Distance travel experience. This includes refurbishing passenger car interiors, reactivating idle equipment, and improving stations, onboard amenities, and customer service channels. Key initiatives include:

Acquiring 125 ALC-42 Long Distance locomotives, over 36 of which are already operational. These American-made locomotives are more efficient, faster, and environmentally friendly than their predecessors.
Investing $28 million in refurbishing 400 bi-level Superliner and 49 Viewliner cars, with nearly 200 Superliner cars already upgraded and the Viewliner refresh slated for 2024.
Reactivating 63 dormant railcars by the end of 2024.
“Both the industry and passengers have eagerly anticipated this development. This RFP marks the most substantial rolling stock purchase since the 1940s when the New York Central placed an extensive order with three manufacturers for over 700 cars,” said Rail Passengers Association President & CEO Jim Mathews. “Rail travelers are entitled to a secure, modern, clean, reliable, and engaging onboard experience, and this announcement is a critical step towards achieving that for future generations.”

Amtrak’s Long Distance network witnessed a 12% increase in ridership in FY23 (Oct. 2022-Sept. 2023), accommodating nearly 3.9 million passenger trips.