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UIP criticizes Swiss wagon rules
Photo: Leonid Andronov / stock.adobe.com
According to an article published by International Railway Journal, wagon owners across Europe have strongly criticised new regulations introduced in Switzerland for freight wagons. The International Union of Wagon Keepers (UIP) warned the measures could trigger "a meltdown in European rail freight traffic." Announced by the Federal Office of Transport on September 11, the rules include stricter maintenance cycles, minimum wheel diameters and enhanced inspections. They follow recommendations from the Swiss accident investigation board after a 2023 derailment in the Gotthard base tunnel, which caused a 13-month closure.
The Swiss wagon owners’ group VAP said the additional costs are "enormous" and that implementation by the end of this year is unrealistic and german association VPI estimated costs in the hundreds of millions annually. Critics also warn the rules could force freight back onto roads and affects Swiss security of supply. (js)