Bane Nor faces challenges in derailed train removal across E6 highway in Norway

The Accident Investigation Board has completed its work, but Bane Nor still faces significant challenges in removing the derailed train from Thursday afternoon. Throughout the weekend, teams prepared equipment, including cranes to lift the train set, but work abruptly halted on Sunday due to slight movements in a nearby rock face. Øystein Stavdal Paulsen of Bane Nor stated that they temporarily stopped operations to clear larger rocks obstructing the train.

The train is lying across the E6 highway, which is likely to experience delays due to the complexities of the situation. Paulsen emphasized that safety remains the top priority. All personnel were evacuated early Sunday, and further clearance is needed for loose debris and vegetation before work can resume. The team plans to start removal operations on Monday, although exact timelines are uncertain due to safety concerns.

The investigation team worked in the area over the weekend as well, having begun their assessment on Thursday. Director Ida H. Grøndahl noted that they documented much of the scene despite being unable to inspect the two front train cars due to the risk of landslides. Once the vehicles are safely removed, they will conduct a thorough examination.

In the coming days, they will reach out to passengers on the train and welcome reports from any witnesses with information. Grøndahl noted that the unstable conditions presented unique challenges that prolonged the investigation process compared to typical circumstances.