#12 Rail Disruptions Unplugged: Tackling Europe's TCR Crisis

About Dual Inventive Dual Inventive develops and produces technology products aimed at enhancing the safety and efficiency of railway infrastructure work, maximizing rail capacity, and improving the reliability of railway systems. The company’s headquarters is based in the Netherlands. Dual Inventive transforms rail safety through safe and efficient remote-controlled track access, ensuring a smooth transition between train operations and maintenance activities. Their innovative products deliver high system safety integrity (SIL 4), and the remote-control functionality achieves significant time and cost efficiencies. This approach provides enhanced protection for track workers, increases engineering time, and boosts train path capacity. About Marleen van de Kerkhof Marleen van de Kerkhof, recognized as a Young Rail Leader by the International Railway Journal, studied Systems Engineering at Delft University of Technology. During her studies, she contributed to the development of the first hyperloop and was part of the student team Delft Hyperloop that won Elon Musk's Hyperloop Pod Competition. Driven by a passion for innovation and transport, Marleen is now the International Affairs Manager at the technology company Dual Inventive, where she impacts mobility and sustainability. Central to her vision is an unwavering belief in rail as the backbone of sustainable mobility. She is dedicated to using the latest digital technologies to enhance safety and efficiency in European rail infrastructure, thereby maximizing rail capacity. Appointed as Rail Ambassador in the Netherlands, she strives to inspire the new generation with the green and innovative power of the railway system. Marleen also serves as chair of Jonge Veranderaars, the youth network in the Dutch mobility sector, and as a board member of Rail Cargo Information Netherlands, promoting the use of rail for freight transport and improving the image of the industry. My Key Takeaway Role of a Rail Ambassador: Marleen promotes the benefits of rail, inspires young people to pursue careers in the rail industry, and emphasizes the green and innovative aspects of rail. She is involved in various organizations to support the rail ecosystem. Public Perception of Rail in the Netherlands: There has been a positive shift in the perception of rail, especially among young people, who see it as a sustainable and viable alternative to other modes of transport. Challenges with Temporary Capacity Restrictions (TCRs): TCRs, which include track maintenance and construction works, are increasing and poorly coordinated, especially across borders. This lack of coordination affects the reliability of rail services. Importance of Reliable TCR Planning: Reliable planning and coordination of TCRs are essential to minimize the impact on rail traffic. Standardizing and digitalizing track access and maintenance can improve efficiency and reduce downtime. Construction Work Efficiency: In the Netherlands, a standard rail construction work takes four hours, but 60 minutes is often wasted on manual safety procedures. Digital solutions can reduce this downtime and improve efficiency. Digital Track Access System: Marleen's company, Dual Inventive, has developed a digital track access system (ZKL3000RC) that allows for remote control of track circuit operating devices, significantly reducing the time needed for track workers to safely access tracks. Need for a Single European Railway Area: Marleen advocates for the establishment of a well-connected single European railway area to overcome outdated national systems and to facilitate more cross-border rail traffic. Addressing Human Resource Challenges: The rail industry faces a significant challenge with a large number of track workers retiring soon. Embracing technology and innovation is crucial to compensate for the loss of human capacity and to maintain and improve rail infrastructure. Sebastian Sperker www.railup.club [email protected]