International
Weedfree On Track launch the world’s most advanced weed control train
Weedfree On Track launch the world’s most advanced weed control train to the European market
Brussels, 12 June, 2008: At a technical conference and demonstration in Belgium, railway infrastructure operators from across Europe had the opportunity to see a live working demonstration of the very latest technology for effective and environmentally sound railway weed control.
Weedfree On Track Limited, who have been providing main line weed control services for the Belgian rail network for SNCB/Infrabel since 2001, have commissioned a brand new self-contained train unit which regulates spray applications through a sophisticated computer controlled weed recognition system, incorporating DGPS mapping.
Built by Hungarian rail weed control specialists Gaal-Gaal, who already operate the first train of this type in Hungary and Austria, the new train began service in Belgium this spring.
Spraying at speeds of 50-60 kph, and with the ability to work through the hours of darkness, the new train can operate effectively while causing minimal disruption to normal passenger and freight traffic.
Comfortable accommodation facilities on-board, including kitchen, living, dining, washing and bedroom facilities mean that the train can operate a full 24/7 service, anywhere on the European rail network.
By treating only those weeds that are present – instead of the whole track bed – the Weedfree-on-Track system is a truly sustainable weed control method that is fully compliant with European legal requirements, meets the need to reduce pesticide usage, minimises waste, and truly addresses environmental concerns.
Initial operations in Belgium are already delivering major reductions in pesticide use over traditional overall applications. Later this year, the train will carry out trials for Banedanmark on the Danish railways, where the need to achieve reductions in herbicide usage is already a major priority.
Timothy Kirkhope MEP for Yorkshire and The Humber and Hungarian MEP Zsolt László Becsey visited the live working demonstration, and Mr. Kirkhope commented “The European Parliament is currently considering a Directive which will require member states to introduce measures to restrict and regulate the use of herbicides, including the usage on railway lines.
“The improvements in speed of application and efficiency mean that Weedfree Track Limited is able to offer its services to rail operators throughout the world and I am delighted that a Yorkshire company is leading the way within the industry.”