Sweden's transport infrastructure is not adequately prepared for extreme weather, the Swedish Accident Investigation Board has concluded after an investigation. The board is criticizing the Swedish Transport Administration.
SwedenThe damage after the extensive torrential rains in Västernorrland in September was exacerbated by logging and construction of forest roads, the Swedish Forest Agency confirms.
SwedenMost county administrative boards in the country have had to end or scale back their work on mapping areas at risk of flooding and landslides because funding has been cut.
SwedenDrainage and constructions to lead water away from the railway were not sufficient when extreme rainfall hit Västernorrland. That, together with steep terrain, caused the train derailments, according to a new analysis.
SwedenIt will be tough prioritizations when the train traffic on the Main Line and Ådalsbanan in Västernorrland can start being released again. It is about ensuring socially critical transports. People's lives and health come first, says the Swedish Transport Administration's director-general Roberto Maiorana.
SwedenThe Forest Agency makes "speculative assumptions" about what caused the damage to roads and railways in connection with the heavy rainfall in Västernorrland. This is the opinion of the industry organization The Forest Industries.
SwedenIt will take almost three weeks before the train traffic can be fully in operation after two freight trains derailed in flood-affected Västernorrland. The Swedish Transport Administration expects that the Main Line through upper Norrland can be reopened for traffic on October 6, and the Ådalsbanan is expected to be able to reopen on September 28.
SwedenVästernorrland has been severely affected by floods. During the night towards Monday, the area can expect more rain, and a new warning has been issued by SMHI.
Sweden
