KORAIL announced on the 11th that it is reducing the speed of KTX trains due to cold waves and heavy snowfall. This measure is to prevent window glass damage for passenger safety.
KORAIL is operating KTX trains on the Gwangmyeong~Daegu section at a maximum speed of 230 km/h. Depending on the situation, the speed is further reduced to 170 km/h.
Ice attached to the underside of the train during high-speed travel can fall onto the tracks, causing gravel to scatter and potentially break the window glass. To prevent this, KORAIL is adjusting the speed.
The window glass is made of 5 to 7 layers of 38mm thick tempered glass in a double-glazed structure, ensuring passenger safety. However, if cracks occur, the outside view may become unclear.
The KTX-Sancheon combined train, which operates by coupling two trains together, experiences increased air resistance and a higher risk of gravel scattering, so it is currently operating with separated trains. The first train of the day in the early morning reduces speed due to vulnerability to cold waves. In dangerous sections such as tunnels, 'track stabilizers' have been applied to prevent gravel scattering. At five vehicle depots nationwide, task forces are operating for snow and ice removal and emergency response.
This year, due to KORAIL's speed adjustments, the number of window glass damage cases has decreased to 74, a 39.3% reduction compared to 122 cases during last winter season.
Similar measures are taken overseas. France's TGV reduces speed from 220 km/h to 160 km/h depending on conditions. Japan's Shinkansen imposes stepwise speed limits from a maximum of 230 km/h down to 170 km/h, 120 km/h, and below 70 km/h.
A KORAIL official stated, "Compared to other transportation modes that suspend operations due to cold waves and heavy snowfall, trains maintain a 100% operation rate without reductions, with only some delays caused by speed reductions and tighter train schedules for safety. We ask for your understanding regarding delays caused by slower speeds."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
