Talerddig rail collision report makes nine safety recommendations

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has published its report into the collision between two Transport for Wales Rail Limited passenger trains near Talerddig, Powys, on 21 October 2024.

The report says one passenger died, several people were seriously injured and others sustained minor injuries. It says the trains did not derail, but both trains and infrastructure at the loop were extensively damaged.

According to the investigation, one train passed its intended stopping position and entered a single-line section occupied by the approaching train. The report identifies low wheel-rail adhesion, failures involving sanding equipment and the train's approach speed as factors.

The branch made nine recommendations, including work on sanding equipment, overrun-risk assessment, train-control protections, railhead treatment, driver training and passenger protection. It says its investigations are intended to improve safety and do not establish blame or liability.