Better punctuality on Finnish railways

[John Ashworth]

Better punctuality on Finnish railways

published today Feb 7 01:45 PM
YLE

More trains ran on time in January than a year ago despite freezing temperatures and snow. According to Finnish State Railways (VR), around 80 percent of trains arrived within five minutes of their scheduled time. A year ago the figure was 15 percent.

Punctuality of local Helsinki services stood at 92 percent last month, an increase of 11 percentage points over January, 2011.

VR says improved punctuality is due in part to fewer changes to rolling stock before and after the rush hours. In addition, better de-icing fluid has been utilized, timetables have been improved and more sidings opened at the main Helsinki depot.

Pendolino rolling stock units have also undergone refits to make them better suited for winter operating conditions.

In February, rail passengers again faced delays as trains were halted by severe temperatures and blowing snow.