Conference_programme: 16.2 - Rail Traffic Noise and Vibration: modelling and measurement
Lecture: The InterCity initiative – railway development in Norway
Author(s): Rasten Elin, Verstappen Ivonne
Summary:
In Norway there is a great amount of major railway projects planned, called The InterCity initiative. This development has its focus in the southeastern part of Norway, and includes 25 stations and 270 km of new double track, which will give 1.5 million residents and commuters faster journeys and an increased amount of departures.\n\nTo ensure optimised projects and make sure that noise annoyance in the neighbourhoods near these InterCity projects is as low as possible, a group of consultants is working together with the Norwegian railway infrastructure manager, BaneNOR.\n\nThe Nordic prediction method for railway noise is the most common method used for noise mapping in Norway. This method was last updated in 1996, therefore, it’s rather limited when it comes to considering effects of new measures. To make sure that noise issues are handled in the same way in different projects and in different parts of the country, the group of consultants holds regularly meetings. In addition to discussing challenges due to the prediction method and necessary adaptations to data tools, interpretation of regulations is discussed. Important issues include: Will new low noise trains compensate for the increase in the number of trains? Is it always best to be conservative and assume worst case when it comes to noise? What about the costs, will noise reduction measures always be wanted? Is it necessary to look at specific houses, or have more focus on an area as a whole?\n\nFollowing, decisions are made that all the participants must apply in ongoing projects. Another positive effect of this approach is that it has contributed to changes in the technical regulations for new main railway tracks in Norway.\n\nTo illustrate this approach in practice, we will present specific examples of ongoing projects. \n
Corresponding author
Name: Ms Elin Rasten
e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Country: Norway
