Sick leave and damaged train sets extend emergency schedule after accident

Lokaltog, a Danish regional railway company, is continuing to operate under an emergency timetable with fewer services until June 28. This measure is a direct consequence of a serious train collision on the Gribskovbanen line in April, which has led to a significant increase in sick leave among train drivers.

The company has reported a surge in absences, with up to 27 drivers reporting sick on a single day, representing about a quarter of its workforce. The elevated sickness absence, encompassing both long-term and short-term cases, continues to impact operations. Lokaltog's operations director, Stig Allan Nielsen, stated that the company is providing follow-up care conversations and implementing safety measures to support affected employees.

In addition to the driver shortages, three train sets were damaged in the April accident. Replacing these trains is complex due to varying technical systems and the need for drivers to hold specific certifications for different train types. Lokaltog has been working intensively since the accident to stabilize operations, prepare rolling stock, and support its staff.

The collision itself, which occurred on April 23, resulted in 17 people being treated in hospital, five of whom were in critical condition. They were later reported to be out of danger. An investigation by the Danish Accident Investigation Board and Lokaltog's internal inquiry are examining the circumstances, which reportedly involved a delay and a change in the sequence of trains at Slotspavillonen Station, leading to the collision approximately one kilometer past the station.

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We are continuously following up and, among other things, conducting follow-up care conversations with the sick colleagues within the framework of the agreed procedures in Lokaltog and the legislation. At the same time, we are working purposefully with safety-creating measures in the operational execution.