Scholarly record
ENSURING SAFE TRAFFIC AND A SAFE ENVIRONMENT AT RAILWAY CROSSINGS UNDER REPAIR
Abstract
There are over 730 level crossings in the Bulgarian railway network. At these points, due to the intersection of rail and non-rail transport, there are prerequisites for accidents, which sometimes end fatally. The problem is exacerbated when the railway line is under repair, but train traffic is not stopped. This paper examines the measures that must be taken to ensure traffic safety during repairs. Two level crossings in operation on the Sofia – Dragoman line were examined. A critical analysis of the actual condition of the two crossings and the projects for their replacement with road overpasses has been made. Except to traffic safety, the environmental impact is also taken into account in the crossing area. Both crossings are located in an urban area. Therefore, they affect the living environment of people. Noise levels were measured to take into account for the impact of the crossing pavement on noise. The reduction of the prerequisites for noise and dust pollution, in addition to using appropriate materials and making noise protection, can also be achieved through appropriate design solutions for intersections, and by using appropriate coatings in the contact area between the wheel and the rail [1]. Different options for replacing the level crossings with overpasses or underpasses have been compared through a cost/benefit analysis. The analysis is based on the expected impact on people and their living environment. Increased requirements for road safety and minimizing environmental impact led to higher construction costs. It is necessary to seek balance and efficiency of solutions.
Publication details
References7
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