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Monitoring Rail Track Subsidence with InSAR

Updated: 7 days ago

Rail infrastructure is susceptible to ground displacement and subsidence, which can lead to track misalignment, service disruptions, and costly maintenance. For rail stakeholders, addressing these issues is crucial to ensure safety, reliability, and operational efficiency.

Hook, UK, landslip beneath railway
  • According to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), track-related issues account for a significant percentage of train derailments, resulting in millions of dollars in damages and delays annually.

  • The Railway Safety and Standard Board (RSSB) reports that track subsidence and related issues cause substantial financial losses, with maintenance costs exceeding £300 million per year in the UK alone.


The Solution: InSAR Technology for Rail track Subsidence


Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) technology can provide the solution to precise monitoring and analysis of ground displacement beneath rail tracks.


High Precision Monitoring


InSAR detects minute ground movements with millimetric accuracy, allowing for the early identification of subsidence and displacement that could compromise track integrity.


Continuous Surveillance


Satellite-based monitoring system offers continuous, near real time monitoring of ground movement, enabling proactive maintenance and timely interventions.


Data-Driven Insights


By combining InSAR data with other geospatial information, we can better understand subsidence patterns. This helps stakeholders make informed decisions about maintenance strategy and risk management. Actionable intelligence helps operatives tackle potential problems before they turn into major faults. This improves response times and makes better use of time and resources.

InSAR output for railway lines by Geofem

What are the Business Benefits of Continuous Monitoring?


Enhanced Safety


Finding subsidence and displacement on the rail network early allows for preventive maintenance. This reduces the risk of accidents and improves safety for passengers and staff.


Operational Efficiency


Continuous monitoring and early intervention help maintain track alignment and integrity, ensuring smoother operations and reliable service. Moreover, the ability of InSAR to cover hundreds of kilometres of track makes it a cost-effective monitoring process.


Sustainability


Effective monitoring and maintenance extend the lifespan of rail infrastructure, promoting long-term sustainability and reducing environmental impact.


Safeguard your rail infrastructure with Geofem. Contact us to learn how our InSAR-based remote sensing and geotechnical services can help you monitor track subsidence.

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