DLR trains too fast on some sections
Speed restrictions have been brought to the automated Docklands Light Railway, DLR trains, after engineers found that the trains had been going too fast in some sections of the railway. The speed limits were introduced after TfL engineers discovered that there had not been enough of a safety margin between the trains’ speeds and the maximum recommended speed. This was found following a review of the service’s signalling system.
Most sections of the DLR have seen their speed drop by 5kmph or around 3mph, TfL said. It also added that the DLR trains had never gone above the recommended track speed.
“Following a review of our signalling system we identified a pre-existing technical issue, which meant there were a number of places where there is not enough margin between maximum recommended speed and the speed of the trains, TfL’s general manager for the DLR, Tom Page said . “For the continued safe operation of the network, we decided to reduce the speed at these locations. The DLR continues to be one of the safest light rail networks in the country.”
Posters have been installed outside the station that inform passengers of the change. “Some small reductions in train speeds on sections of the DLR network have been implemented as part of ongoing review of DLR’s signalling system” the posters say.
DLR trains are automated though they do have captains on board. New trains were scheduled to be introduced in April 2024 but have since been delayed. The direct service between Stratford and Lewisham has been suspended with no decision being made on whether the changes would be permanent.
Some commuters have voiced their concern to BBC London, complaining about the long wait times between trains. TfL has apologised to passengers for the ongoing disruption. It said that it is looking at ways to minimise any impacts.
