NR on target with 2019 deadline for track waste disposal

There is no change to Network Rail’s plans regarding the elimination of waste being flushed onto the tracks.

Network Rail confirmed to RAIL that it was still the intention to get rid of the practice by the end of 2019.

Modern and converted vehicles have retention tanks, but older fleets operated by charter firms and by some freight operating companies that hire stock do not. However, Locomotive Services Ltd has developed a solution for Mk 1s, while Direct Rail Services has a tank for Mk 2s.

In a Commons Written Reply on February 23, Rail Minister Jo Johnson said: “By December 31 2019, all Department for Transport franchisees will have ceased the discharge of effluent onto railway tracks. This will be achieved though the modification of existing trains by fitting toilet retention tanks or by the introduction of new trains that do not discharge onto the tracks.”

NR spokesman Dan Donovan said: “The Rail Minister is just commenting on the rolling stock he has direct influence over, through franchises.

“We have been working collaboratively and constructively with our charter industry partners to better understand the problem. There are still a number of hurdles to overcome in order to commit to definite timescales for addressing this permanently. The technical and financial considerations are being worked through at the moment, and good progress is being made.”