A train continued for one-and-a-half miles when it derailed while travelling at around 77mph, early investigations have revealed.
The Greater Anglia service involved in the incident was travelling from Southend Victoria to London Liverpool Street when it left the rails around 2.1 miles from Wickford station at 2.08pm on August 14.
A preliminary investigation by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has revealed that the train was travelling at approximately 77mph when the rearmost vehicle derailed.
When the rearmost vehicle of the train derailed, its wheels continued to run on the sleepers and ballast for about 1.5 miles before coming to a stop.
The RAIB says train driver was reporting seeing a kink in the track, which rocked the driving cab, when an emergency call from another train passing in the opposite direction forced the driver to apply the brakes.
Jamie Burles, managing director of GBR Anglia, said: "We are continuing to support the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) following its announcement to investigate the incident at Wickford.
"While the line between Wickford and Shenfield has now reopened, we are very sorry for the disruption this incident caused to our passengers and our local community.
"We remain thankful that no one was injured.
Read more
-
Greater Anglia resume normal service nearly two weeks after derailment
-
Why replacement buses are running on this south Essex line despite re-opening
-
Disruption on Essex railways this week as hot weather causes track issues
"Safety is our highest priority.
"Thankfully incidents like this are extremely rare on Britain’s railways, which remain among the safest in the world but, when they do happen, we are determined to fully understand why.
"We understand the desire for answers, but it is important that the independent investigation is allowed to reach its conclusions.
"We will continue to cooperate fully with the RAIB throughout this process, and we will consider any recommendations that may be made."
None of the estimated 62 passengers on board were injured, and the train remained upright throughout the incident.
The RAIB's early enquiries found forward-facing CCTV from the train showed a misalignment in the track at the point of derailment.
The driver was in the process of reporting the track condition to the signaller when they received an emergency call from another train passing in the opposite direction.
Damage was sustained to the derailed train, and the passing train also suffered minor damage from flying ballast.
Significant damage was also caused to the track, signalling, and overhead electrification equipment.
The RAIB’s investigation will continue to examine the sequence of events, track condition and maintenance, hot weather mitigation measures, and any underlying management factors.
A spokesman for the RAIB said: "Our investigation is independent of any investigation by the railway industry or by the industry’s regulator, the Office of Rail and Road.
"We will publish our findings, including any recommendations to improve safety, at the conclusion of our investigation."
Share