South Korean rail operator KORAIL is using nearly 600 automatic track-spraying systems to prevent the tracks from warping during the heatwave. With temperatures exceeding 40°C, the company has also introduced precautionary speed restrictions for trains.
The extreme heatwave in South Korea is forcing KORAIL, the national rail operator, to take special measures to ensure trains can continue to run safely.
The company has commissioned 599 automatic track-sprinkling systems, similar to fire sprinkler systems, located at various points across the rail network.
Their role is to reduce the temperature of the infrastructure and limit the risk of the rails warping under the effect of very high temperatures.
The entire Gwangmyeong–Daegu high-speed section is covered
The misting systems cover the entire ballasted section of the high-speed line between Gwangmyeong and Daegu.
The systems are concentrated particularly in areas considered vulnerable to heat, such as poorly ventilated sections and tight curves.
High temperatures can cause the rails to expand, and in extreme situations, track deformation may occur, necessitating speed restrictions or even a temporary suspension of services.
Trains are being slowed down as a precaution
Amid a heatwave in which temperatures have exceeded 40°C, KORAIL has also ordered a precautionary reduction in train speeds on certain sections.
The operator has also prepared stocks of bottled water, fans and other emergency supplies at the main stations and on board trains.
At the same time, announcements are broadcast periodically at stations and on trains to keep passengers informed in the event that high temperatures cause delays.
24-hour emergency response centre
Since May, KORAIL has been operating a 24-hour emergency response centre, in response to increasingly severe weather events and the rising frequency of incidents linked to climate change.
The centre monitors train movements nationwide and coordinates activities relating to passenger transport, metropolitan and freight traffic, infrastructure, power supply, rolling stock and traffic control.
The measures also aim to protect employees working outdoors.
Special measures for railway staff
Field workers have been provided with protective equipment, and managers regularly monitor the perceived temperature in work areas so that schedules can be adjusted when conditions become hazardous.
Staff are advised to take sufficient breaks, drink water regularly and seek shade to reduce the risk of heatstroke and heat exhaustion.
Through these measures, KORAIL is endeavouring to maintain safe rail operations at a time when extreme temperatures are placing strain on both the infrastructure and rolling stock, as well as on staff working in the field.
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