The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has criticised Transport for Wales (TfW) after an investigation into the UK's first fatal head-on train collision in 25 years. The report found that TfW did not effectively prepare its train drivers to handle emergency situations, leading to the crash in Mid Wales on October 21, 2024.
Details of the Incident
Passenger David Tudor Evans, 66, died in the collision between two trains in Talerddig, Powys. Four others were seriously injured, and 23 suffered minor injuries. The westbound TfW train failed to stop inside a loop and rejoined the single line too soon, crashing into an oncoming train.
The RAIB report revealed that the driver did not deploy an emergency sanding system that could have prevented the crash or reduced its severity. An automatic sanding system also failed due to blocked pipes and an electrical fault. TfW had insufficient processes to ensure the system would work.
Recommendations Issued
The RAIB made nine recommendations directed at TfW, Network Rail, the Rail Safety and Standards Board, and Angel Trains. These include reviewing driver training, train cabin design, and the effectiveness of wheel-rail adhesion modifiers.
Investigators found that Mr. Evans died after colliding with a table. Exit routes were blocked by a jammed door, and emergency services struggled to access the scene due to open cupboard doors.
Underlying Factors
The westbound train's wheels were sliding, a common issue in autumn when leaves make tracks slippery. The Class 158 trains have two sanding systems: automatic and manual. The automatic system failed due to blocked hoses, electrical faults, and incorrectly installed plates. The driver did not use the manual emergency sander, which worked when tested after the crash.
The driver recalled no training on emergency sanders, despite records showing up-to-date training. A survey of TfW drivers revealed a lack of clarity about when to use the system.
Responses from Parties
A joint statement from TfW and Network Rail said: "Safety remains our highest priority... We remain committed to working together to consider the report's recommendations." Andrew Hall, RAIB's chief inspector, called the crash "a tragedy" and hopes the lessons deliver lasting safety improvements.
Dave Calfe, general secretary of Aslef, said: "Our thoughts are with the family of David Tudor Evans... We welcome the recommendations and will assist their implementation."
