Most of Scotland’s rail network is back and open for business following widespread disruption caused by Storm Amy.
Winds of up to 100 miles per hour in places ripped up trees, including more than 80 that were brought down on overhead electric lines and rail tracks, especially in the north of the country.
Network Rail engineers worked around the clock to repair the damage caused to the rail infrastructure with call outs to more than 420 incidents.
Services are running across the majority of the network although ScotRail is unable to operate services on the following routes for the remainder of today (Sunday, 5 October) as Network Rail Scotland teams work hard on repairs which are complex and will take time:
- West Highland Line – Oban / Crianlarich / Fort William / Mallaig
- Far North Line – Inverness / Wick / Kyle line
The storm also brought down power lines, especially in the north, which has a knock-on effect on rail infrastructure such as level crossings.
Customers should check the ScotRail app, website, and social media channels for the most up to date information on services.
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail Service Delivery Director, said:
“We’re very pleased that the vast majority of services are now operating. Storm Amy was even more severe than forecast with winds of up to 100 miles per hour in some parts of Scotland.
“This led to very challenging conditions for the rail network, and working with Network Rail, we took the responsible decision to withdraw train services in many parts of the country where weather conditions were most severe.
“We understand the effect this has on customers, but this was a necessary step to ensure the safety of passengers and staff, which is always our first priority.
“Our colleagues at Network Rail Scotland worked around the clock to carry out infrastructure checks and repairs to reopen the railway.
“We would like to thank customers for their patience and understanding while the clear-up operation took place and we are pleased that in most parts of the country the rail network is back and open for business.
“We will update our website, mobile app, and social media feeds with the latest travel advice, and customers should check for further updates before they attempt to travel on our services on the West Highland, Far North, and Kyle lines.”
Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, said:
“Storm Amy really left its mark on Scotland’s railway. With more than 420 incidents, including fallen trees and debris across the tracks, the scale of the recovery effort been immense.
“Our teams have worked tirelessly, day and night, to clear routes and carry out essential repairs. Thanks to their dedication, we’ve made real progress but there’s still more to do.
“We understand how disruptive this has been for passengers, and we’re extremely grateful for everyone’s patience and understanding. Rest assured, we’re continuing the hard work to fully restore the network and appreciate your support as we get there.”
Image credit: iStockphoto.com/PaulMaguire
