Track warning after dangerous incidents
Network Rail Scotland is urging the public to stay safe and keep off the railway during the Covid-19 lockdown after a number of trespassing incidents in Renfrewshire.
Despite most people observing the government’s guidelines on staying home and social distancing, Scotland’s railway is still seeing trespass and vandalism on the tracks.
Over 50 incidents of people on the tracks have been recorded on Scotland’s railway since March 20, when schools closed ahead of the full lockdown on March 23.
Several dangerous incidents have been report in Renfrewshire in recent weeks, the organisation said.
One train was forced to brake after two men went onto the line in Paisley on April 14.
On Easter Sunday, April 12, teenagers were spotted on the line near Paisley St James station.
On March 31, a woman was spotted on the line near Barrhead station.
With trespass incidents often also increasing during the lighter spring nights and school holidays, Network Rail is urging the public to keep off the tracks.
Liam Sumpter, Network Rail Scotland route director, said: “During the lockdown, keeping your distance doesn’t just mean from other people – it means from the tracks too.
“Trespassing on the railway can be a fatal mistake.
“Trains take a long time to stop and anyone struck by one will suffer life-changing injuries, or worse.
“The railway is also full of hidden dangers, like overhead power lines, which can carry up to 25,000 volts and kill instantly.
“We’re urging the public to stay safe and off the railway – allowing us to focus on supporting the country through this crisis by keeping key workers and vital freight services on the move.”
Network Rail works closely with the British Transport Police to keep Scotland’s railway secure and trespassers and vandals will be prosecuted.
The public can also help to keep the railway safe by contacting Network Rail’s 24-hour helpline on 03457 114141 to report any locations where trespassers are gaining access to the tracks.