The ongoing impact of dry weather is forcing South Western Railway to cut services on the West of England line, a situation that has arisen for the second consecutive year. Starting from 10 August, the number of trains between Yeovil Junction and Exeter St Davids will be halved, with trains to Exeter running every other hour. This change is a direct response to soil shrinkage affecting railway embankments, which can lead to track buckling.
The phenomenon, known as Soil Moisture Deficit (SMD), has been exacerbated by climate change, leading to concerns about the long-term viability of rail infrastructure in affected areas. The railway operator has acknowledged that the current SMD levels are already higher than last year, indicating a worrying trend that could disrupt services further.
In an effort to mitigate these issues, South Western Railway has invested in strengthening the route and is collaborating with the University of Southampton to explore potential long-term solutions. These may include adjustments to track materials and vegetation on embankments to better withstand dry conditions.
As the climate continues to change, the implications for rail travel could be significant, affecting not just timetables but also the reliability of services. Commuters may need to adjust their travel plans as journey times are expected to increase due to reduced speeds on vulnerable sections of the line.
Source: BBC News
