The innovative technology is revolutionising how Scotland's railway infrastructure is inspected, making the process significantly safer, faster, and more efficient. Teams based in Edinburgh have deployed DLI across their operational areas, including sections of the East Coast Main Line, a critical route connecting Edinburgh and London King's Cross.
DLI works by analysing footage captured from trains, providing engineers with a clear view of vegetation along the railway lines. This allows them to identify potential issues and schedule necessary work remotely from their depot, minimising the need for engineers to be trackside.
This approach reduces the time engineers spend on the railway, where special access is required for safe working. It also leads to fewer trips trackside and a decrease in exposure to the inherent risks associated with working on the railway.
As autumn progresses, DLI is proving instrumental in helping engineers monitor vegetation, a time when falling leaves can disrupt train operations. By identifying potential problems earlier, teams can prioritise work effectively, ensuring trains continue to run reliably for passengers.
The adoption of this new working method has also resulted in direct savings of approximately £55,000 in the Edinburgh area.
“"This is a brilliant example of how technology is helping us look after the railway more safely and efficiently. Completing what would previously have been a three-year inspection cycle in just two months is a fantastic achievement and means our engineers can get a clear picture of where work is needed much more quickly. It also means less time spent out on the railway carrying out inspections and more time focused on the places that need our attention. The Edinburgh teams have really embraced this new way of working and should be incredibly proud of what they've achieved."
Network Rail manages, operates, and develops Britain's railway infrastructure, encompassing 20,000 miles of track, 30,000 bridges, tunnels, and viaducts, alongside numerous signals, level crossings, and stations. The organisation is responsible for running 20 of the UK's largest stations, with over 2,500 smaller stations operated by train operating companies.
