A sinkhole has caused a UK train line to close indefinitely, with replacement buses currently in operation.
The one-metre-deep sinkhole in Scotland was discovered under tracks on the line between Caldercruix and Drumpellier on Sunday.
Network Rail is working to establish the cause of the sinkhole, with an underground spring currently thought to be responsible. An expected date for the line’s reopening will be given once investigations are complete and a repair plan has been formulated.
The Airdrie and Bathgate route is expected to remain closed until at least April 29. Network Rail Scotland’s Interim Route Director Ross Moran said: “Sinkholes like this are very unusual on the railway, and our specialist geotechnical engineers are working tirelessly to identify the cause, as well as planning the repairs, so we can reopen the railway.
“We understand the inconvenience this incident will cause for passengers, and I’d like to thank those who travel on this route for their patience and understanding while work continues.”
A replacement bus service is operating every 30 minutes between Helensburgh and Airdrie during peak times, and hourly outside of peak times.
The Edinburgh to Bathgate route is also running every half an hour during peak times and every hour outwith.
Phil Campbell, ScotRail’s Customer Operations Director, has assured passengers that efforts are being made to mitigate the disruption: “We are doing everything we can to keep our customers moving while this issue is resolved, with replacement buses between Airdrie and Bathgate.”
He also advised travellers to be prepared for delays, saying: “Customers should plan their journey in advance and allow some extra time, as the bus service will take longer.”
