An interim report into a runaway coal train incident in the Hunter Valley has found the three-locomotive, 96-wagon train reached speeds well over the safe limit before rolling backwards for 5 kilometres and coming to a stop.
The Office of Transport Safety Investigations released its Interim Factual Statement into the incident, which occurred on July 25. The report found the Pacific National train ran away for approximately 20 kilometres, starting at Newdell Junction and reaching speeds of up to 90 kilometres an hour, well above the generally accepted safe operating speed of 60 kilometres an hour for a loaded coal train.
The train rolled to a stop on an uphill grade near Camberwell Junction, before starting to roll backwards for 5 kilometres. It came to a final stop between the Middle Falbrook Road and Glennies Creek Road level crossings. The report found there was damage to rolling stock and minor damage to the track.
OTSI said the final report would be provided to the minister for tabling in both houses of the NSW Parliament.
