An initial report by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has determined that a 'kink' in the track caused a Greater Anglia train to derail in Essex on August 14. The incident, which occurred near Wickford station, resulted in the train's rear carriage being dragged for approximately 1.5 miles while off the rails.
Sixty-two passengers were on board the service traveling from Southend to London Liverpool Street at the time of the derailment. Although the train remained upright and no injuries were reported, the event caused significant travel disruptions, with services in the area only resuming on Wednesday.
CCTV footage corroborated the RAIB's findings, showing a misalignment in the track at the location where the driver reported experiencing a 'kink.' The train driver reported the track condition to the signaller just before an opposing train passed, prompting the driver to apply the train's brakes.
The derailment caused sustained damage to the train, and the opposing train sustained minor damage from flying ballast. The track itself, along with signaling and overhead electrification equipment, also suffered considerable damage.
The RAIB will conduct a further investigation into the circumstances surrounding the derailment. This will include examining the actions of those involved, the condition and maintenance of the track, and the effectiveness of measures to mitigate risks associated with operating trains in hot weather. The performance of the train and any underlying management factors will also be considered.
Jamie Burles, GBR Anglia Managing Director, stated that the company is cooperating fully with the RAIB's investigation. He apologized for the disruption caused to passengers and the local community and expressed gratitude that no one was injured. Burles emphasized that while Britain's railways are among the safest globally, understanding the cause of such rare incidents is crucial.
This incident followed another train derailment in East Sussex on August 13, which involved an eight-carriage train traveling from London Victoria to Eastbourne. In that event, three carriages overturned, and two people were seriously injured, with passengers forced to evacuate the wreckage amid high temperatures.