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The New Zealand Railways Magazine, Volume 5, Issue 5 (September 1, 1930)

Some Advantages Obtained from Train Control Working

page 16

Some Advantages Obtained from Train Control Working.

Under the operation of this system a closer supervision of the running of all trains in the control area, and of the work performed by these trains, is made possible. In consequence of such supervision better time-keeping is achieved, and the fact of a Controller being in a position to question the time taken for any particular shunt is a large factor in having this work carried out with a minimum of delay. In order to expedite the running of a train, the Controller directs, if necessary, that certain shunting work at a station be omitted. He may at times order the load of a heavy train running late to be reduced to enable it to maintain better running, and also, if possible, to recover some of the time which may have been lost.

The fact that all sub-terminal stations can advise Controllers, at a moment's notice, of any accumulation of tonnage, is an important factor in ensuring a better turn-over of wagons, and in lessening the possible delay in the delivering of goods at the destination station.

A Special Train In The Auckland Province. (Photo, W. W. Stewart.) Arrival at Otahuhu of the first passenger train to run over the Auckland-Westfield deviation.

A Special Train In The Auckland Province.
(Photo, W. W. Stewart.)
Arrival at Otahuhu of the first passenger train to run over the Auckland-Westfield deviation.

When “tight” crossings have to be effected, the Controllers have the position explained to the enginedrivers, who are thus enabled to co-operate in facilitating the work. In a congested area, as exists in many parts of our railway system, the Controller is of considerable help to stations in giving them the latest and most reliable information as to the whereabouts of trains. This information enables trains to be worked through with a minimum of delay.

Another and important advantage is that trainmen are encouraged to speak to the Train Controller direct on matters affecting the running of their trains. This tends to promote a greater degree of cooperation between headquarters and the staff along the road, and brings about that spirit of “team work” so necessary in the expeditious working of a railway system.

The Supreme Court of the United States has defined negligence as “the omission to do something that a reasonable man would do, or doing something a prudent and reasonable man would not do.”