Network Rail has launched its annual 'Ctrl Alt Deleaf' operation to tackle one of Britain's most disruptive seasonal challenges - fallen leaves turning railway tracks into dangerously slippery surfaces that can delay thousands of passengers.
The nationwide programme deploys specialised trains that clean tracks and apply adhesion modifiers to combat the "Teflon-like" layer created when leaves are compressed by passing trains. This slippery coating dramatically reduces friction between wheels and rails, causing trains to overshoot platforms, struggle on gradients, and suffer wheel damage.
More than 80 dedicated leaf-fall teams are working across the network, clearing overhanging branches and responding to incidents. The teams focus on proactive vegetation management to prevent leaf accumulation that can bring services to a standstill.
The operation addresses a problem that costs the railway industry millions annually. Reduced adhesion forces trains out of service for repairs, creates significant delays, and poses safety risks as braking distances increase substantially on leaf-contaminated tracks.
Network Rail's investment in specialised equipment and additional staff reflects the scale of autumn's impact on Britain's railways. The programme aims to keep passengers moving safely as the network faces its most challenging seasonal period, when wet weather compounds the leaf-fall problem.
Source: Network Rail media centre