The world’s longest passenger train record was shattered in 2022, when a train exceeding a mile in length and comprising 100 carriages made railway history. The train traversed the breathtaking Alps, which stretch across nations including Italy, Austria, Germany, France, and Switzerland.
Switzerland’s Rhaetian Railway achieved this milestone with its 1.2-mile-long formation. It travelled along the Albula-Bernina route from Preda to Bergün. The train journeyed through the UNESCO World Heritage site, with the passage lasting over an hour.
The route winds through 22 tunnels, several of which spiral through the mountainside, and 48 bridges, including the curved Landwasser Viaduct. Onlookers gathered throughout the valley to witness the extraordinary train’s passage.
Rhaetian Railway CEO, Dr Renato Fasciati, said people from across the world flocked to watch the train. The 100-carriage formation helped commemorate the 175th anniversary of Swiss Railways, reports the Mirror.
Dr Fasciati said: « This world record attempt is a wonderful reason and a wonderful instrument for us to show the world this beautiful railway. »
Throughout the pandemic, the operator reportedly suffered approximately 30% revenue losses. The world record endeavour aimed to highlight the spectacular train route.
The formation consisted of 25 Capricorn railcars, 100 carriages, 3,000 tonnes of steel and technology. It was operated by seven train drivers and 21 technicians throughout the mountain range.
Detailing the operation of the 100-carriage train, Rhaetian Railway said: « The 25 trains all had to accelerate or decelerate at the same time, although only four trains each could be controlled from the same driver’s cab.
« An electric circuit ensured that all trains braked at the same time if the trains needed to slow down suddenly.
« Due to the heavy weight of the train (2,850 t without passengers), very high forces were exerted on the infrastructure and the carriages.
« A separate intercom system on the train, trained train drivers and clear instructions ensured the desired result. In addition, special software was loaded for the record-breaking train and the mechanical braking power was reduced. »
The journey enabled the railway to secure a Guinness World Record for the longest narrow-gauge passenger train.
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