UK
Broken rail suspected in Hatfield crash

photo : reuters

It has also imposed speed restrictions on any sections of track similar to that at the Hatfield crash site.

A company spokesman issued a statement saying: "Railtrack today is investigating the possibility of a broken rail being a factor in yesterday's tragedy at Hatfield."

The spokesman continued: "Access to the site has continued to be limited. However, investigations will urgently continue throughout today to determine this and any other factors that may be present.

"As a precaution, Railtrack has imposed blanket speed restrictions across the country at any site with similarity to the characteristics of the track at Hatfield. This will cause some disruption to services today. "

The Railtrack spokesman added: "Our investigation will continue with the utmost urgency."

Annanova: Broken rail may have caused Hatfield train crash 18/10/2000
Annanova: Rail track was smashed near crash site 18/10/2000
18/10/2000
Annanova: Railtrack already facing scrutiny over broken rails 18/10/2000