Introduction of New Methods for Train Operation Control in Strong Winds

Since the derailment accident between Kita-Amarume and Sagoshi stations on the Uetsu Line, JR East has worked jointly with the Railway Technology Research Institute (RTRI) to study creation of “a method to properly assess the effect of wind force on railcars for operational restrictions.” As a result, the authors reviewed the wind observation method and the calculation method for overturn resistance of vehicles, taking into account investigation results of recent accidents due to strong wind and research results. In light of that review, the authors put into practical use a safer and more rational new operation control method use in strong winds based on technical evidence. This method has been introduced on some lines from the winter of 2011 after discussions at technical meetings and committees that also included external experts.