Passenger Train Passed Red Signal Before Salisbury Tunnel Collision, Report Finds
A preliminary report from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has detailed that a South Western Railway (SWR) passenger train passed a red signal before derailing and colliding with another service near Salisbury Tunnel Junction on 31 October. The SWR service, travelling from London Waterloo to Honiton, derailed after its wheels slipped on the rails and subsequently struck a Great Western Railway (GWR) train travelling from Portsmouth Harbour to Bristol Temple Meads.
Investigation Details Emerge
The RAIB's initial findings indicate the SWR train failed to stop at the signal, positioned at the entrance to Fisherton Tunnel. Both trains were travelling in the same direction, into the tunnel, when the collision occurred. The incident resulted in injuries to thirteen passengers and one train driver, none of which were life-threatening.
The report underscores that wheel slide was a contributory factor in the SWR train's failure to brake effectively. The RAIB has commenced a full investigation to ascertain the sequence of events and the underlying causes. This will include examining the condition of the tracks, the performance of the braking systems on both trains, and operational procedures.
Network Rail confirmed that the damaged track and signalling systems have been repaired, and the affected line reopened earlier this week. The incident highlights ongoing challenges in rail safety, particularly concerning signal passed at danger (SPAD) incidents and adhesion issues, which remain critical areas for the rail industry to address.
