For many of us, flagging down a train as you would a bus would seem a little odd. But for some, those who use around 150 of the most remote stations throughout the UK, it is part of everyday life. But maybe not for much longer.
Network Rail is putting in place a “request-stop” kiosk at Scotscalder station, on the Far North line, as part of a wider £5 million investment in the line’s radio signalling system. If the technology works well, seven other stations will get the units.
With the kiosk in place, people don’t have to wave and hope for the best anymore – now they can hail the train electronically.
This is not the only solution that rail networks use. For instance, in the USA, Amtrak services lean on the ticket sale system. As it tracks people’s trips, the trains know exactly when to stop – its an advanced ticketing system that works well if train services are not to a complex web of destinations. Other train services across the world use phone systems and even a button that activates a flashing light.
Should the kiosk trial prove a success, the other seven stations getting the technology will be Altnabreac, Kinbrace, Kildonan, Dunrobin Castle, Rogart, Invershin and Culrain. Network Rail says they would get these systems in the “coming months”.
Not everything will be cutting edge just yet: passengers onboard wishing to leave the train at Scotscalder will have to continue to speak to the guard or conductor, as at present.
The trial at Scotscalder station will be closely monitored to ensure safety and reliability. Information will also be available on platforms, initially to highlight the change to passengers, and a period of dual running will be in place to test the enhanced system extensively prior to it being rolled-out at the other locations.
In addition to the installation of the request-stop kiosks, Network Rail has upgraded existing radio communication masts and antennas and installed new equipment at Muir of Ord, Invergordon, Kildonan and Wick stations to enhance radio coverage. This has resulted in better reliability and resilience of the communications network across the route, improving the overall passenger experience for those travelling on the line.