Handy Excuse

[Canary42]

At least one TOC is using the weather as an excuse for late or cancelled trains today - that way it doesn't get included in their stats.




TOC=Train Operating Company

[Jackdaw33]

Which TOC? If it's in a storm-affected area sounds reasonable to me.

[Canary42]

Of course it sounds reasonable, that's why they get away with it.

Two TOCs use the same tracks - one reports cancellations, the other doesn't - work that one out.

No names, it might compromise The Answerbank.

[Buenchico]

I've worked in the rail industry, so here's an explanation which might apply. (Since I don't know the region or the TOC, I obviously can't be sure):

When there are high wind speeds overhead cables swing about a lot. That increases the chances of the equipment on top of electric trains catching hold of the cables and pulling them down. (When that happens there's typically a mile and a half of cable which needs to be replaced, causing massive problems for everyone).

In order to reduce the risk of the cables being brought down, Network Rail reduces the maximum speed that trains are permitted to operate at along the relevant lines. (Trains normally running at 125mph or 100mph are initially limited to 90mph but that speed can be further reduced if the wind speed increases). That, in turn, reduces the number of 'slots' available for trains to operate on those lines.

TOCs with high-frequency services on those lines are then forced to cancel services (because they're simply aren't enough slots for them to run in), while TOCs with infrequent [or diesel-operated] services on the same lines aren't as badly affected.

[Sycamore3House]

I would say the TOC's do have a good excuse. The warnings on the news where I live is not to travel unless absolutely necessary. I would take that to mean all types of transport.

[Svejk]

A very good excuse I'd have thought. Imagine the outcry if people were injured/killed and the TOC blamed it on the system in place re. cancellations/late trains.

[agchristie]

So how would you categorise a late train when faced with a fallen tree blocking the line or a landslide?

[Dogsbody2]

Try thinking of the positive angle, Canary, instead of your apparent obsession with believing that businesses are out to 'make' on natural disasters.

Your question should have been - Great Travel News - how does one TOC manage to maintain the service in spite of the terrible weather? What an outstanding customer service achievement.