More than a thousand interested individuals got acquainted with the fascinating world of railways during the first Dutch Rail Days at the Roosendaal location on Friday, September 15, and Saturday, September 16. Swietelsky Rail Benelux, together with various partners, offered visitors a unique opportunity to explore the world of railway construction. The monumental locomotive shed at the Roosendaal yard was transformed into a vibrant festival area and meeting place for young and old.
Highlights included a tour of the signal box from 1894 and a viewing of the over eight hundred meter long RUS 1000 S renewal train that was active on the tracks of Roosendaal station. Visitors could also attend demonstrations of thermite welding of rail tracks and the remote securing of the worksite on the tracks.
At the official opening of the Rail Days with councilor Sanneke Vermeulen from the municipality of Roosendaal, director John Weijtmans emphasized the crucial importance of digitization to optimally utilize the scarce rail capacity for both passengers and goods. Safety must always remain a top priority. Therefore, Weijtmans announced that Swietelsky Rail Benelux will deploy the ZKL 3000 RC, the remotely switchable ZKL from Dual Inventive, for railway work. "This technology allows us to work faster and more efficiently. The remote securing of the worksite improves productivity during service interruptions. Furthermore, we will deploy the latest machines to accomplish more work safely and efficiently in less time," said John.
In addition to technological advancements, he highlighted the importance of inspiring and motivating young people to pursue a career in the railway sector. On Friday, numerous young people were welcomed in Roosendaal for the Rail Cargo Rally, organized by the information office Rail Cargo information Netherlands. Over eighty students and interns had registered for this rally, where they visited various participants of the Rail Days by train to learn more about the promising opportunities within the railway sector.
We look back on a successful first edition of the Rail Days at the Roosendaal location, where both professionals and curious visitors from the area had the chance to experience the railway sector in all its glory. The event not only highlighted the innovative and sustainable nature of the railway industry but also the promising future for the sector, thanks to ongoing technological advancements and the involvement of young talents.
