The UK rail industry comes together for Ukraine aid train
A HUMANITARIAN aid train left the UK in early April destined for Ukraine following the invasion of the country by Russian forces.
Organised by UK Rail for Ukraine, a special freight train operated by DB Cargo has now departed for the Ukraine, carrying more than 1500 tonnes of aid, including non-perishable food, hygiene and medical products, basic living equipment, and other much-needed supplies that have been donated from a wide range of businesses and organisations following requests for aid from the Ukrainian authorities. Transported in 24 shipping containers over a 500-metre train, the cargo has been labelled in three languages to assist with distribution when it arrives at its destination.
Advice and information has been provided by both the Ukrainian Logistics Alliance and the Department for International Trade in Warsaw, and the train will be received by organisations working in Ukraine upon its arrival.
Network Rail chair Sir Peter Hendy CBE said: “We have all seen the vital role the railway has played in Ukraine, delivering people to safety and vital supplies to the front line. “Britain’s railway is now playing its small part in supporting the inspirational people of Ukraine.”
Chief executive officer of BD Cargo
UK, Andrea Rossi, said “Throughout Europe, DB Cargo is already leading the way in delivering humanitarian aid by rail to the Ukraine, having recently developed the first rail bridge to the war-torn region. “Here in the UK, we are pleased to be able to support the ongoing aid effort to deliver essential supplies to ease the suffering of the Ukrainian people impacted and displaced by the atrocities that continue to unfold.”
UK Rail for Ukraine is a cross-industry initiative. It was set up by volunteers in early February and has brought together the large quantities of aid from across the country to help those affected by the conflict. The organisation comprises volunteers from across the railway family and is led by a project team including Network Rail, Symposium Consulting, Deutsche Bahn, London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast, MTR Elizabeth Line, and The Veterans Charity.