A potential delay looms over the highly anticipated East West Rail project, and it's all about who gets to control the train doors! The battle for control of the doors has sparked a heated debate between the train operator and the rail union.
Chiltern Railways, the operator, is locked in a standoff with the Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT), which represents the train guards. The dispute centers around the operation of the East West Rail services connecting Oxford and Milton Keynes. The RMT claims that Chiltern Railways wants to give train drivers the sole responsibility for opening and closing carriage doors, eliminating the need for guards.
Passenger trains were initially scheduled to begin running between these two cities by the end of December, marking the first time in almost 60 years. However, there's now no official word on when these trains will start their journey, even though the first phase of the East West Rail project is set to be completed in December 2024.
The concept of driver-only operation (DOO), where the train driver controls the doors, has been a controversial topic for rail unions in the past. It has even led to strikes by RMT members at operators like Southern and South Western Railway. And here's where it gets controversial... an RMT spokesperson confirmed that Chiltern Railways has indeed communicated their plans for DOO, which the union strongly opposes.
A source from the train drivers' union, Aslef, told PA news agency that they believe there should be no further expansion of driver-only operation on British railways, citing safety concerns for certain services. Adding fuel to the fire, a spokesperson for Chiltern Railways emphasized their collaboration with the Department for Transport, trade unions, and industry partners to deliver the first stage of East West Rail, creating nearly 100 new jobs and bringing immense benefits to the region.
A National Audit Office report published in December 2023 highlighted the significance of East West Rail as a £6-7 billion investment.
So, who do you think should control the train doors? Is it a matter of safety or efficiency? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss this controversial issue!
