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In the night of May 10 to 11, 2026, the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) put new derailment detectors into operation at several locations before the Gotthard Base Tunnel. This measure follows the derailment of a freight train in August 2023, caused by a wheel failure. The detectors were installed in a critical section to enhance safety in rail traffic, particularly on the access routes where both passenger and freight trains operate at high speeds.
Technology for early detection of derailments
Derailment detectors are the only proven technology that allows for the infrastructure-side detection of derailments. Their aim is to prevent a collision between trains in the unlikely event of a recurrence. However, it is emphasized that this technology cannot prevent derailments themselves. To further enhance safety, improved maintenance of freight cars is required. Additionally, an adjustment of liability law in rail freight transport is demanded, as currently the transporting railway company (EVU) is liable, while the car owners have only limited incentives to invest in the safety of their cars.
The SBB supports the recommendations of the Swiss Safety Investigation Authority (SUST), which stated in its final report on the derailment that cracks in the wheels must be detected early to avoid similar incidents in the future. The SBB is convinced that the implementation of the derived measures will further enhance safety in international rail freight transport.
Lift of speed limit
With the commissioning of the new derailment detectors, the previously applicable temporary speed limit of 160 km/h in the area of the portal track changes before the Gotthard Base Tunnel will be lifted. This restriction had been in effect since the tunnel’s recommissioning in September 2024 and had no negative impact on travelers or connections in Ticino and German-speaking Switzerland. However, it reduced the time reserves necessary to accommodate delays.
The SBB aims to further improve safety in rail traffic with these measures and minimize risks for all road users.
