The stoppage and delays in train traffic between Umeå and Sundsvall are due to an update in the new signaling system that the Swedish Transport Administration is testing on parts of the route. Deficiencies have been discovered which mean that speeds have to be reduced and the chaos is expected to continue in the coming weeks.
Many travelers have been affected and, among other things, have been forced to take the bus instead.
Train route between Umeå and Sundsvall in the summer of 2024
New stops in the train service between Sundsvall and Umeå – the problems continue
Umeå’s municipal council on the train mess in northern Sweden: “A scandal”
Both Norrtåg’s management and several politicians in the north have directed criticism at the Swedish Transport Administration’s handling of the issue.
– The Swedish Transport Administration has informed me that they are working intensively to correct the error so that traffic can start as soon as possible according to the regular timetable, writes Andreas Carlson (KD) in an email.
No extra money is promised
In Umeå, the politicians have decided to send a letter to the infrastructure minister. And Riksdag member Peder Björk (S) from Västernorrland demands compensation from the state for both travelers and the regions.
But no extra money is promised from the government.
– Travelers who are affected by delays have the opportunity to seek compensation based on the existing rules on traveler rights. Even the carriers that operate train services can receive compensation for financial damage from the Swedish Transport Administration, says Andreas Carlson (KD) in an email reply.
How do you intend to act around the train mess?
– My employees and I have a continuous dialogue with the Swedish Transport Administration and I assume that the Swedish Transport Administration, together with its suppliers, reviews its procedures to reduce the risk of similar things happening in the future, says Andreas Carlson (KD).
He further writes that an infrastructure bill will be submitted to the Riksdag in the fall and that they should prioritize maintenance but also invest in new infrastructure where necessary.
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“This is not acceptable” – see more about the criticism and hear Umeå’s municipal councilor Hans Lindberg (S), who plans to send a letter to the Swedish Transport Administration and the Minister of Infrastructure. Photo: Anders Öhlund/SVT