Unmanned coal train races 20 km at 90 km/h before reversing to stop
A Pacific National coal train travelled about 20 kilometres through the Hunter Valley at speeds up to 90 km/h, then rolled backward 5 km before halting.
On July 25, a Pacific National coal train without crew ran uncontrolled for roughly 20 kilometres on the Up Main Northern line in the Hunter Valley. The consist, made up of three locomotives and 96 wagons, reached speeds near 90 km/h, far exceeding the typical 60 km/h limit for loaded coal trains. The runaway was finally arrested on an uphill grade close to Camberwell Junction, after which it rolled back about 5 kilometres and stopped between the Middle Folbrook Road and Glennies Creek Road level crossings.
The incident caused damage to the train’s rolling stock and minor track impairment. The Office of Transport Safety Investigations has launched a probe into locomotive and wagon specifications, braking systems, data recorders, CCTV, crew actions and organisational response processes. Pacific National has pledged full cooperation, emphasizing safety as its top priority. A comprehensive report will be submitted to the minister for inclusion in both houses of the NSW parliament.
Why it matters
The event highlights potential safety gaps in heavy-rail freight operations and could prompt stricter oversight.
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