Rail operators respond to route closure

Rail freight operators in Europe have been closely coordinating their activities to minimise traffic disruption between central Europe and Italy in response to a one-month closure of a main rail route due to a rock fall. The rail line passing through the Alpine Gotthard tunnel was closed June 5 after the falling rocks damaged tracks and buried a worker, according to Switzerland media reports. 

Private intermodal rail operator Hupac says it has been working with other companies, including rail operators SBB Cargo International, BLS Cargo, and RAlpin, to re-route traffic via the Lötschberg and Simplon tunnels. “Combined transport operators and rail companies are pooling their volumes and resources,” says Hupac. “Hazardous goods transport is given priority to limit an increase of hazardous good shipments on roads. SBB Cargo International, BLS Cargo, Hupac and RAlpin want to thank all their partners in the transport chain for their dedication to overcoming the current emergency.”

www.hupac.ch