BAV Draws Conclusions from the Freight Car Accident in the Gotthard Tunnel

The independent safety investigation authority (SUST) has published its report on the accident in the Gotthard Base Tunnel. The Swiss Federal Office of Transport (BAV) has discussed possible measures with industry representatives to ensure the safety of rail freight transport. Based on this, the BAV will implement appropriate measures.

(Bern) In June 2025, the independent safety investigation authority (SUST) published its report on the accident in the Gotthard Base Tunnel. It shows that there is a systematic risk of wheel fractures in rail freight transport due to the new composite brake shoes.

In its final report on the accident of a freight train in the Gotthard Base Tunnel in August 2023, the SUST found that the existing requirements and specifications for the composite brake shoes pose a systematic risk of wheel fractures in freight cars.

At the end of June, the BAV invited representatives of Swiss rail freight transport to a first round table to develop measures in dialogue with the industry that will continue to ensure the safety of rail freight transport in light of the new findings. On August 7, the BAV invited industry representatives to a second round table to specify the measures.

Higher Minimum Wheel Diameter and Increased Maintenance Intervals

Based on the dialogue with the industry and the recommendations that the SUST has made to the European Railway Agency, and in addition to various industry efforts, the BAV now foresees sovereign measures. The focus is on prescribing a higher minimum wheel diameter and more frequent maintenance intervals for freight cars operating in Switzerland. Furthermore, the industry should organize itself in such a way that it is clear to the railway company that the maintenance interval for the cars to be transported is being adhered to.

The company responsible for maintenance is accountable for compliance with the interval. Additionally, cars with overheated wheels should be consistently removed from service and sent for maintenance.

These measures can be implemented in the short term. According to current knowledge, they significantly reduce the risk of wheel fractures. The BAV intends to implement and enforce them as soon as possible, taking into account the inputs from the industry and the discussions at the round table. An important issue here is economic feasibility.

Advancing Innovations in Brake Systems

Further short- and medium-term measures discussed with the industry are under review. In the long term, the impact of the composite brake shoes on the wheels will be investigated in greater depth. Additionally, innovations in brake systems should be advanced. The BAV will continue to advocate for adjustments to the requirements at the European level.

Photo: © BAV