As we move into the later months of the year, the UK’s rail network faces increasing threats from one of nature’s most destructive forces: water. Geraint Gibbs, Operations Manager at SEP Rail Services, shares insights on how the industry can combat this growing challenge through innovative technology and strategic planning.

In its July 2024 report, Network Rail identified flooding as the leading cause of weather-related delays from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, accounting for a substantial 37 per cent of the total. This equates to 752,585 minutes, or approximately 522 days, of delay.

Earlier in the year, as part of Control Period 7 (CP7), Network Rail allocated £2.8 billion to enhance resilience against extreme weather and climate change. Of this funding, £60 million has already been specifically designated for upgrading drainage systems in Yorkshire and the North East over the next five years.

“I’ve seen a shift in how drainage is perceived within the rail industry,” explained Geraint. “The increasing severity of weather means it’s no longer just about managing water; it’s about protecting passengers and ensuring the long-term resilience of our infrastructure.”

Lessons from the past

The tragic derailment near Stonehaven in 2020, which claimed three lives, serves as a stark reminder of the importance of robust drainage systems. The incident, triggered by drainage failure during extreme weather, was a catalyst for change in how the industry approaches infrastructure resilience.

“The Stonehaven disaster was a watershed moment,” Geraint reflected. “It underlined the catastrophic consequences of neglecting drainage systems. Since then, we’ve seen a decisive move towards not only reinforcing drainage networks but also integrating them more thoughtfully into overall infrastructure planning.”

Innovation in drainage solutions

Advancements in diagnostic and construction technologies have transformed the way rail drainage systems are assessed and maintained. Tools like CCTV, sonar and predictive maintenance are enabling more accurate diagnostics with less ground disturbance, ensuring more efficient and cost-effective interventions.

“When you get a call at 2am for emergency drainage support, or when working within tight blockade windows, every minute matters,” said Geraint. “That’s why we’ve invested heavily in the new technology, ensuring that breaking ground is the last resort.”

Predictive maintenance, in particular, is playing a critical role in proactively identifying potential failures before they escalate. By leveraging advanced data analytics and diagnostic tools, teams can anticipate drainage issues and rectify them before they impact rail operations.

“This is where the industry is heading – using data to stay one step ahead,” Geraint continued. “With sophisticated data management platforms that facilitate smooth communication between asset managers, designers and construction teams, we can ensure the right decisions are made quickly and effectively.”

Safeguarding the future

While Network Rail’s planned investment will be distributed across the next five years, not all existing drainage infrastructure will be upgraded. This presents an area where strategic focus is still needed.

“Stonehaven highlighted the critical need for thorough diagnostics and ongoing maintenance,” Geraint said. “This isn’t scaremongering – blocked drainage leads to flooding, which in turn causes track geometry deterioration, delays and service disruptions. The consequences compound over time. Although the industry recognises the importance of drainage, it remains one of the most overlooked aspects of rail infrastructure. I hope to see this change over CP7.”

The financial implications of neglecting drainage infrastructure may not have been fully quantified, but real-world events tell the story. Each year, the costs associated with delays, emergency repairs and infrastructure damage continue to mount.

In 2023/24, the UK experienced the highest number of named storms since the Met Office began its naming system in 2015. With September 2024 marking the start of the 2024/25 storm season, SEP Rail Services is bracing for its busiest period.

“In five years, we may well reach a point where the infrastructure is sufficiently upgraded to withstand the challenges posed by extreme weather,” Geraint said optimistically. “But until then, we remain on high alert, providing 24/7 drainage support across the UK to ensure the network continues to operate safely and efficiently.”

www.seprail.co.uk/service/cctv-drainage-surveys/

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