Fima has started work on a pilot project to install safety and security systems using the latest technology at two level crossings in Lithuania.

An integrated system will give train drivers early warning of obstructions on the level crossings in Vilnius and also minimise the risk of road vehicles jumping a red light to cross the rail line.

Artūras Šuliauskas, Director of Project Implementation at Fima, said: “Our first task will be to upgrade the traffic controls at the crossings by replacing obsolete relay-based system with a modern microprocessor-based system that meets the most stringent security requirements. We will also modernise the power supply and data communication systems and install additional safety measures including day and night vision video cameras and induction loops to identify vehicles using the crossings. We’ll also put in a wireless system to send information to the cabs of locomotives on the line.”

The video cameras and induction loops installed under the road surface will alert the train control centre in Vilnius if the crossings are obstructed thereby allowing staff to halt approaching trains if necessary.

The improvement of traffic safety at Lithuania’s level crossings is absolutely vital, according to Andrius Janušauskas, Chief Security Inspector of Lietuvos Geležinkeliai (Lithuanian Railways). “The evidence that Lithuanian drivers still lack awareness is clear because a failure to obey the laws of the road is often the main cause of accidents at level crossings. Meanwhile, train drivers are not always able to see an obstruction at a level crossing in time to stop their train. The solutions being installed in Vilnius will give adequate warning to the driver of a danger ahead, giving them enough time to stop the train safely.”

One of the security measures being installed at the crossings will be a first in Lithuania. Special equipment allowing train drivers to see the level crossing he or she is approaching will be installed in locomotives. The system will allow a clear view of the level crossing from at least two-and-a-half kilometres away allowing the driver to reduce speed or stop the train.

Lithuanian Railways operates 538 level crossings, with 29 of them monitored by video cameras. There were nine accidents at level crossings last year in which three people were killed and two injured.