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Last updated Sun Dec 31 13:00:42 EET 2000
There are few changes to next year's timetable. A new early morning IC2 train runs Helsinki-Jyväskylä via Tampere, departing at 5:30, Mon-Sat. A return departure leaves at 11:00. Also the 11:58 Helsinki-Tampere and 15:55 return departure become IC2s. Pori gets an extra direct connection to Helsinki (P166) which departs 7:05, Mon-Sat. Pieksämäki gets a new direct connection to Turku (P810) departing 9:05.
Source VR, 28.12.2000
Source WWW
http://www.vr.fi/news/uutta/uutta.htm#n28
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.14
Helsinki's governing council yesterday decided to allow building of a new station at Sörnäinen to be called Kalasatama (Fish Harbour) at a cost of FIM100million and completion in 2004. At first users could be as little as 3000/day until residential and business districts are built-up.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 14.12.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20001214KA19&pvm=20001214&a=1
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.14
The steering group consisting of leading council and ministry officers yesterday decided the line of the metro extension Ruoholahti-Matinkylä. The whole route will be built underground. At least five intermediate stations will be built: Lauttasaari, Keilaniemi, Otaniemi, Tapiola, Niittymaa and possibly at Niittykumpu and Koivusaari. Throughout autumn the project group have sifted through all the alternative lines to consider the building potential along the route. Now the metro will considered against the alternative bus and LRT options. The total costs are now estimated at FIM2,5billion.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 2.12.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20001202KA1&pvm=20001202&a=1
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.14
From next year track charges will consist of a sliding-scale charge, goods traffic charge and an investment charge, although the current basis for passenger traffic charges will continue for two more years. The current system consists of a basic charge and sliding-scale charge. Next year VR will need to pay FIM330million (2000 = FIM236million) - FIM250M for freight and FIM80M for passenger traffic. The new bases were expected to raise charges for passenger traffic too drastically. The sliding-scale charge is to recover costs of network maintenance, emmissions and accidents, according to usage. Goods traffic charges is to recover fixed costs of maintenance without relation to traffic levels. The investment charge will be levied where improvements noticably reduce operating costs and will be decided on a case-by-case basis.
Source Ministry of Communications, 21.12.2000
Source WWW
http://www.mintc.fi/www/sivut/dokumentit/tiedote/liikenne/ti211200296fin.htm
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
Loading and unloading of car-trains may continue if Helsinki council accepts a joint proposal from VR and RHK. The council's new general plan for Töölö Bay - north of the station does not include space for the present loading/unloading ramps and VR has threatened to end car-train traffic completely in response to the council's suggestion of a move to Pasila. Under the new compromise the ramps would need space under only one block of offices, not two as originally planned, although this will make train workings more difficult.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 15.12.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
The Kerava-Lahti short-cut line would eventually bring tens of new trains into Helsinki every day and RHK (the rail administration body) has decided to clarify the limit of Helsinki station's through-put of trains. Although it would not affect the starting of traffic on the line it is feared a limit would be reached in a number of years.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 15.12.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20001215KO2&pvm=20001215&a=1
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
The Communications Ministry has set up a working group to consider how traditional state funding can be supplemented or replaced to allow building of the Kerava-Lahti short-cut route to be started in 2003. The working group should present its report by the end of April 2001.
Source Communications Ministry, 14.12.2000
Source WWW
http://www.mintc.fi/www/sivut/dokumentit/tiedote/liikenne/ti141200283fin.htm
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
YTV (the Capital region's public transport authority) has decided to order 860million seat/kilometres next year - 30million more than this year. The estimated compensation to VR is thus FIM 232,2million. Traffic increases result from more departures on the local Martinlaakso line and Coastal Route.
Source YTV, 14.12.2000
Source WWW
http://www.ytv.fi/tiedot/tied_14122000_0.html
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
ATC coverage was extended to Oulu on 14.12 when the section Ylivieska-Oulu was taken into use, in practice the whole route Helsinki-Oulu is now covered besides Kerava, Tampere and Kokkola station yards. 1686 kilometres are now covered and a further 700 kilometres will be added next year, most notably to Iisalmi and Joensuu.
Source RHK, 14.12.2000
Source WWW
http://www.rhk.fi/tiedotteet/tiedotteet.html
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
VR has renewed its Internet timetables. A new search-based service speeds and eases usage. Long-distance, local and Russian train traffic is included. Pages are in Finnish, Swedish and English. Over 100 000 users use the timetable pages every month and nearly half of all VR customers get their timetable information from the Internet.
Source VR, 14.12.2000
Source WWW
http://www.vr.fi/news/uutta/uutta.htm#n24
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
The "Red Line" proposal won the competition for a hotel and office building at the west side of Helsinki station. Work starts next year and should be completed in 2003. Part of the building will cover some platform areas.
Source VR, 11.12.2000
Source WWW
http://www.vr.fi/news/uutta/uutta.htm#n22
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
VR's long-distance train traffic prices increase by an average 3,8%, as does prices on the Capital's local services outside of the YTV area from January. IC2 supplements will be the same as other IC trains from next year although second-class supplements on IC and Pendolino trains fall from from FIM20 to FIM15 for travel under 76KM.
Source VR, 8.12.2000
Source WWW
http://www.vr.fi/news/uutta/uutta.htm#n21
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
Helsinki-St Petersberg expresses will see timetable changes from 1.12.2000 as travel times reduce by 22-24 minutes. The Sibelius will become the fastest scheduled ever in 5 hours 15 minutes. The departure and arrivals times in Helsinki stay as before with alterations being made to/from St. Petersberg. The current timetable will be re-applied 16.4-9.6.2001 to allow for track works to be carried out in both countries.
Source VR Uutiset, 10.11.2000
Source WWW
http://www.vr.fi/news/uutta/uutta.htm#n24
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
Wednesday morning (15.10) a fire broke out in the battery compartment of a Pendolino unit as it set-off from Ilmala depot in Helsinki but was quickly extinguished by fire brigade units. However the unit is out of service at least on Wednesday and other stock will be used as a replacement.
Source VR Uutiset, 15.11.2000
Source WWW
http://www.vr.fi/news/uutta/uutta.htm#n23
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
The first of 8 new Pendolinos arrived at Turku docks on 10.11.2000. Trials and crew training of the first 3 new trains take place early next year after which they will enter traffic on the Coastal Route while the original pair from 1995 will undergo maintenance. In autumn 2001 Helsinki-Jyväskylä services will begin, replacing IC2 stock on the same schedules. New routes to begin in 2002 will be decided after the trials. The new trains have seating increased from 264 to 309, mainly by introducing 2+2 seating in 2nd class. The catering vehicle is now classified as a restaurant car and has 22 seats instead of the current Bistro cars 13. Trains consist of 4 second-class 1 first-class and a resaurant car. Technical changes include improved snow protection and public address system, and fitting of sanding equipment and resilient wheels.
Source VR Uutiset, 10.11.2000
Source WWW
http://www.vr.fi/news/uutta/uutta.htm#n22
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
Rail travellers have the option of a new feeder service starting 1.11.2000 when Kuljetuspalvelu Kuortti begins a group taxi service with 3 minibuses. Buses leave 5 minutes after the arrival of certain trains - the first at 8:20 and the last at 18:20, in all 11 different departures. A phone-in service takes care of collections to various departing trains. A fixed price based on zones makes them a cheaper altenative to normal taxes.
Source VR Uutiset, 31.10.2000
Source WWW
http://www.vr.fi/news/uutta/uutta.htm#n21
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from
host 195.74.0.22
The new foot tunnel crossing under the platforms of Helsinki station has started to leak during autumn rains. According to Terramare Oy its builder, the seals between elements were not made in the best possible way due to the tight timetable. Remedial work is now taking place under gaurantee.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 31.10.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20001031KA3&pvm=20001031&a=2
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
A YTV-local council working group has decided train traffic on the so-called City Railway, Helsinki-Leppävaara will only start in June 2002, when bus feeder services will now also begin. The alternative was to start the new services in January 2002. The railway should be completed by Autumn 2001 and the necessary bus terminal by the end of 2001 but the planned car parking area under the terminal will not be ready until at least 2002.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 25.10.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20001025KA9&pvm=20001025&a=2
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
RHK - the railway administration centre is investing heavily in electrification throughout northern Finland in future years. To this end electrification of the goods route Tuomioja-Raahe has started and should be complete next summer. Planning the work on the route Oulu-Rovaniemi has also started - electrification should be ready in 2004.
Source RHK, 20.10.2000
Source WWW
http://www.rhk.fi/tiedotteet/tiedotteet.html
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
Finland has applied to the EU for FIM780million aid - representing 10% of total costs, during 2001-2006 to support building the TEN-network. Major rail projects which make up FIM527million of the total include building short-cut route Kerava-Lahti, track and safety improvements Luumäki-Joensuu as well as Tampere-Pieksämäki, signalling and train control improvements for goods traffic nationally, track and safety improvements for passenger traffic Seinäjoki-Oulu, electrification and track and safety improvements in Lapland. However countries are not obligated to bring projects to fruition when making an appplication for aid.
Source Liikenneministeriö, 18.10.2000
Source WWW
http://www.mintc.fi/www/sivut/dokumentit/tiedote/liikenne/ti181000239fin.htm
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
The national radio system for the rail network is to be renewed by 2006. The old system relies on tecnology from the 1970's. whereas the new network will be based on the European standard system for rail - GSM-R. RHK has ordered the work which will cost approximately FIM300million, and FIM68million has already been allocated from this autumn's supplementary budget.
Source Liikenneministeriö, 14.9.2000
Source WWW
http://www.mintc.fi/www/sivut/dokumentit/tiedote/liikenne/ti140900216fin.htm
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
In connection with negotiations for this autumn's supplementary budget it has been agreed building of the extension to the Main Route's "city railway" Tikkurila-Kerava will be funded from 2002.
Source Liikenneministeriö, 14.9.2000
Source WWW
http://www.mintc.fi/www/sivut/dokumentit/tiedote/liikenne/ti140900216fin.htm
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
In connection with next years budget negotiations the Communications Ministry is considering closing many low-traffic-volume lines. A ministry working-group has categorised 12 low-traffic-volume lines as having a socio-economic benefit but the costs of track renewals appear to outweigh the other costs to society for the next 30 years if traffic were closed on five other lines: Savonlinna-Huutokoski, Kontiomäki-Taivalkoski, Äänekoski-Haapajärvi, Kemijärvi-Kellokoski and Nurmes-Vuokatti. These five lines will no longer be considered in further budgetary calculations but all lines are expected to be able to keep open until 2008 with normal maintenance. RHK (the railway administration body) is now researching if track-renewals could be reduced in their scale to reduce costs.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 30.9.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000930KO1&pvm=20000930&a=2
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
The first of 12 additional two-car units for the Helsinki metro arrived yesterday from Lubeck. The German-built trains have bi-directional seats to make space for wheelchairs, prams or bikes. Also new is a corridor connection within the unit. The new trains retain the same orange colour and dimensions as the original series and will be taken into use from next summer.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 30.9.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000930KA10&pvm=20000930&a=2
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
On Monday (25.9) a 12 year-old boy on a bicycle died under a train at an unguarded level-crossing in Lohja. The level-crossing on a freight-only line did previously have a boom but this was removed when the road was down-graded to a pathway. Many schoolchildren witnessed the accident and crisis help has been arranged. Plans were already underway to replace the crossing with a tunnel but this is not expected to be built for many years.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 27.9.2000
Source WWW
www.helsinginsanomat.fi
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
On Sunday (17.9) up to 10000 people formed a human chain up to 4-deep around VR's 100 year-old former goods magazines in Helsinki city-centre in a demonstration to support their preservation. A petition -already signed by a claimed 40000 people was also started.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 18.9.2000
Source WWW
www.helsinginsanomat.fi
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
A seminar in Riihimäki on developing the Main Route heard that increasing capacity on the Main Route does not replace the requirements for a short-cut line to Lahti, at least according to VR and RHK (the rail administration centre). Continuing the four track layout as far as Kerava would cost only FIM200million and works could start already before Pendolinos enter traffic in 2002.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 12.9.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000912KA4&pvm=20000912
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
Sleeping-cars will continue on Lapland and possibly Oulu night trains, but the total number of cars will be reduced to a third of the current 111. VR has asked manufacturers for suggestions for sleeping-cars and couchettes - these could be more easily converted to day cars as compartment stock. At present around half a million travellers use sleeping-cars each year .
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 10.9.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000910KO29&pvm=20000910
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
Part of the Helsinki-Turku route's Pendolino departures have been replaced from 8.9 with IC and "blue" stock, for the time being. The (official- Ed.) reasons are a test equipment data transfer fault and on-going major servicing which will cause further traffic changes on the Coastal Route.
Source VR Uutiset, 11.9.2000
Source WWW
http://www.vr.fi/news/uutta/uutta.htm#n72
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc,fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
A 60 year-old man died Thursday (7.9) when his tractor was hit by agoods train about 10.00. Vegetation disturbs visibility at the unguarded level-crossing. He was the tenth person to die this year as a result of this years 34 level-crossing accidents.
Source MTV3 uutiset, 7.9.2000
Source WWW
http://scully.mtv3.fi/mfc/page_uutiset?sivu=arkisto&pubid=30299
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
A Kuopio court has dismissed charges of endangering traffic safety against the train driver involved in the crash at Suonenjoki station two years ago. His InterCity train drove into an arriving goods train injuring 21 people. The court saw there was no evidence from which to conclude that the signal was showing a red or green light to the InterCity train.
Source MTV3 uutiset, 6.9.2000
Source WWW
http://scully.mtv3.fi/mfc/page_uutiset?sivu=arkisto&pubid=30236
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
Electric tram traffic started in Helsinki on 4.9.1900 with a temporary route Töölö-Hietalahti - 3 permanent routes opened the same year. Trams traffic peaked in 1945 when 150 million journeys were made - three times the current level. In the 1960's tram traffic was in danger of being abolished but rationalisation including abolition of conductors saved them. Articulated trams were introduced in 1973 and currently 40 low-floor trams are to be introduced by 2003. Extensions and new routes are also currently envisaged.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 2.9.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000902KA3&pvm=20000902&a=2
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
Railwayman Union members in Helsinki start an overtime ban from 4.9. The branch is protesting at VR's long-standing recruitment ban which means many members are working large amounts of overtime causing fatigue. They want more workers to be recruited to ensure the safety of trains, workers and passengers - many staff have already reached the legal limit of yearly overtime hours.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 31.8.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000831KO28&pvm=20000831
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
The capital region's traffic board - YTV will not achieve its goal of competitive tendering for local rail traffic by 2006, as the newly proposed railway law would leave all passenger traffic under a VR monopoly. Similar tendering has brought savings of up to 30% on bus traffic. The new law would allow competition for intra-EU freight traffic only - the minimum demanded by the current EU directive, but which accounts for only 3% of freight traffic. YTV hopes the proposal will be changed to allow it to run its own trains - bought from VR before 2002 under the terms of its current contract, which expires in 2006. YTV is also unhappy with the item regarding allocation of track capacity, which will give priority to long-distance passenger and freight traffic over local passenger traffic, which it sees as securing VR's advantage. The change of heart over privatisation stems from the current government's majority party - the SDP, to block changes to VR's ownership and its monopoly status.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 26.8.2000 & 30.8.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000830AJ6&pvm=20000830
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
One man died in a level-crossing accident in Pieksämäki today (16.8). An express train hit the 63 year-old's car on a local unguarded level-crossing. Visibility towards the train was at least one kilometre. This year 8 people have already died in level-crossing accidents - 10 died in the whole of last year.
Source MTV3 Uutiset, 16.8.2000
Source WWW
http://scully.mtv3.fi/mfc/page_uutiset?sivu=arkisto&pubid=28245
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
Two people died when a train hit their car at Haukipudas yesterday evening. None of the train's passengers were injured. The crossing was partly guarded - a boom on one side and warning lights on the other. The train was unable to move without clearance equipment being put to use - the line was re-opened late at night. The accident is the third this year on the same section.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 10.8.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000810KO13&pvm=20000810
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
VR has not made an offer in the planned privatisation of Estonia's railways, despite its intentions to do so. VR's MD Henri Kuitunen says the decision was affected by the network being included in the privatisation process. Four offers were received for the 66% of shares in Eesti Raudtee being sold by the State privatisation agency.
Source Kauppalehti, 9.8.2000
Source WWW
http://www.kauppalehti.fi
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
Signs guiding passengers to ticket sales compartments on Helsinki's local traffic have not lasted the summer sunshine. VR amended ticket sales practices on local traffic in January so that only one car marked by the signs would have a conductor. However in sunny weather all signs have shown "NO TICKET SALES" therefore passengers have found it difficult to know where to board the train. The text on Finnish-made signs is designed to be changed by adjusting the heat level but the sun's rays have also caused the sign's text to change. Also the text has faded so even in cloudy weather interpreting the signs has been difficult.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 8.8.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000808KA5&pvm=20000808
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
The Communications Ministry has doubled the amount of money allocated to level-crossing removals in next year's budget, as a result of recent accidents - including Road Authority allocations FIM100million will be in use. Priority will be given to level-crossings on routes with high levels of passengers and dangerous goods. Visibility problems will also be taken into remodelling works. The long-term goal is to remove all level-crossings on such routes by 2012. There are approximately 4400 level-crossings in Finland from which only about 1000 are guarded.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 2.8.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000802KO5&pvm=20000802
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
Queuing for up to an hour at Helsinki station's ticket office has frustrated travellers the whole summer. The increasing price of petrol has apparently led many to change to the train this summer, but the number of staff on duty is always the same, summer and winter. According to VR it does not recruit summer workers because training takes so long. Shift patterns have been re-arranged and passengers are being urged to use the normal ticket cash desks and ticket machines.
Source Nelonen uutiset, 30.7.2000
Source WWW
http://www.nelonen.fi/uutiset/kotimaa/kotimaa_alasivu.phtml?id=2150
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
Yesterday a 17 year-old passenger died and approximately 20 others including the traindriver were injured when the loaded trailer of a lorry involved in ballasting work was hit by the loco of the 9.55 Oulu-Rovaniemi at Kuivaniemi. The 65-tonne lorry was slowly crossing the track and the trailer spun around next to the track on impact causing extensive damage along the side of the train. The train was travelling at about 120Km/h but luckily the locomotive and 2 of the 3 cars remained on the track.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 7.7.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000707KO5&pvm=20000707&a=2
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
VR increases its long-distance ticket prices by 2.7%, for example, Helsinki-Tampere (2.class) now costs FIM102. Helsinki local traffic (outside the YTV area) rise by approximately 3%, that is, each zone increases by one markka.
Source VR-uutiset, 26.6.2000
Source WWW
http://www.vr.fi/news/uutta/uutta.htm#n40
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
A Jyväskylä court has unanomously dismissed charges of endangering traffic and causing death and injury against the other driver of the train involved in the fatal crash of 6.3.1998. The court saw that the driver - of equal status to that which died while driving it had a right to assume his collegue was in control of the train, the inability of the other driver to read and reduce the speed of the train meant he should not be charged for failing to control it.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 23.6.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000623KO20&pvm=20000623&a=2
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
A Communications Ministry report presented yesterday by a working-group of local councils, RHK, VR and other interested parties suggests a number of passing loops for the route Helsinki-Tampere to handle the growing speed differentials when Pendolinos are introduced in 2003. Especially those between Kerava and Järvenpää are seen as essential to ensure local traffic does not immediately block their paths. Additional fast local Sm4 EMUs and double-deckers for local traffic will also be needed to ensure train traffic keeps pace with growing residential, commercial and industrial developments along the route. Passenger numbers are expected to rise by 30% within 20 years. However VR still keeps the Kerava-Lahti short-cut line as the most important development for the route and sees little benefit in the working-groups suggestions to ease congestion south of Riihimäki.
Source Helsingin Sanomat 21.6.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000621KO18&pvm=20000621&a=2
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
Finland's first travelcentre opened in Seinäjoki on 15.6. The following will open in Lappeenranta and Kouvola. In all 22 travecentres are planned where information, ticketing and services for different transport modes are combined.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 16.6.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000616KO5&pvm=20000616&a=2
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
VR is planning to withdraw half of its 110 sleeping-cars within 5 years and is now conidering whether to order replacements for them. If new cars are not ordered then all sleeping-car traffic will disappear within 10 years. Sleeping-car traffic is seasonal so making cost-effective use of them throughout the year would be difficult therefore alternatives are under consideration.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 10.6.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000610KO22&pvm=20000610&a=2
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
Kuntatekniikanyhdistys (a local-government association) awarded HKL - Helsinki's traffic board for its work in developing tram traffic to give easy and comfortable transportation. FIM400million is being invested in 40 low-floor trams and a further FIM40million in raising and widening the 240 tram platforms. The award is given to encourage improvements in living conditions and sustainable developments for residents.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 9.6.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000609KA20&pvm=20000609&a=2
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
Every fourth train arriving at Tampere was late (by more than 5 minutes) according to VR's official figures for 1999 - about half the 20000 long-distance trains arrive on-time. RHK estimates that of all late arrivals half happen in Tampere. Although total minutes of lateness reduced last year they are still twice the level of 1993. (VR's published figure of 84% on-time arrivals for 1999 regards arrivals at the terminating station-ed.)
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 7.6.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000607KO8&pvm=20000607&a=2
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
Linja-autoliitto (the umbrella organisation for bus operators) are slowing the building of a nationwide network of 22 travelcentres. They fear up to 20% of customers will disappear, ie transfer to private cars if buses need to leave citycentre sites to combine with railway stations, negating any expected benefits to hook new public transport users. They see the whole scheme as a way for city councils to clear desirable citycentre sites for development and buy cheaper sites from VR or RHK for the new travelcentres. Compromises have to be found to get the centres built - for example, in Tampere only long-distance buses will move and local and regional buses will remain in the centre.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 23.5.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000523KO15&pvm=20000523
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
The manager and 2 undermanagers at VR's Hyvinkaa workshops have been found guilty and fined for discrimination and causing injury - a first in these matters. The health and safety representative suffered from stress, loss of sleep and chest pains as a result of the harrassment which started in September 1996 and continued until June 1998. He was started to be discrimated against after he demanded removal of asbestos from locomotives. He was blamed for delays to work or work not being done. When he refused to attend an course on asbestos work he was first saked then instead put on 6 months unpaid leave, although another worker had received only a week of unpaid leave for drunkeness. Besides fines the three defendants along with VR, need to pay many months salary, compensation and additionally the plaintiffs and States trial costs.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 7.6.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000607KA24&pvm=20000607&a=2
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
VR's customer service system has been chosen by IT magazine Computerworld and the Smithsonian Institute as one of the five most significant IT solutions in the public transport sector in their yearly awards. The system was jointly developed with Andersen Consulting. Opera combines timetable, ticketing and seat reservation information and can connect to the industry's Amadeus system enabling travel agents to also use the system.
Source VR Uutiset, 6.6.2000
Source WWW
http://www.vr.fi/news/uutta/uutta.htm#n35
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
The Turku-Toijala electrification has been completed and regular electric haulage starts 4.6. Electricification projects in northern Finland will now commence. The section Turku-Toijala is 128Km and the work, ordered by RHK commenced in 1996 with VR-Rata and Fortum as main contractors. Trackwork and station yards have also been up-graded and some level-crossings removed. Total costs amounted to FIM450million
Source RHK tiedote, 30.5.2000
Source WWW
http://www.rhk.fi/tiedotteet/tiedotteet.html
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
Metro traffic in eastern Helsinki was badly affected by a lightning strike at the signalling station at about 7:00 this morning. Trains from the eartern termini at Vuosaari and Mellunmäki could not be directed at all. Some trains stood for up to 1,5 hours although all were able to proceed to the following station. The normal timetable resumed after 10:00. The metro has never previously been so disrupted by a lightning strike.
Source MTV3-uutiset, 29.5.2000
Source WWW
http://scully.mtv3.fi/mfc/page_uutiset?sivu=arkisto&pubid=22148
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
The Railway Administration Centre - RHK is looking for cheap and quick solutions to improve the weak safety at level-crossings with private roads. As a pilot scheme Turku-Toijala is being used, and here over half of the 94 level-crossings demand improvements so that the linespeed can be raised to 140km/h from 2002. Methods include removal, a ban on heavy lorries, changing approaches and ramps and development of low-cost warning equipment - even sandboxes will be considered as an improvement at certain places. The following scheme would invlove Haapamäki-Orivesi, as according to RHK the Tampere-Jyväskylä route must be closed for tunnel repairs in advance of Pendolino traffic and trains will need to detour via Haapamäki.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 22.5.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?artid=20000522KO7&pvm=20000522
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
Passengers for trains to and from Russia need to make-do with facilities below what is expected at an international border station in Vainikkala - checks are down in a corridor without waiting facilities. Especially when two trains are at the station at the same time - those travelling in the opposite direction are then requested to wait outside. When border controls for on-board passengers were transferred onto the train, border formalities for those leaving or joining the trains at Vainikkala were transferred to the cramped railwaystation. In summer checks in the corrider will be replaced by checks on the platform to ease congestion. Poor public transport connections from Vainikkala have limited growth in passenger numbers and in this way the inconvenience has also been limited.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 22.5.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
From 4.6 new, completely non-smoking InterCity2 trains will begin running Helsinki-Turku and Helsinki-Tampere-Jyväskylä consisting of 4-6 double-decker IC day cars only. IC2 trains will have first-class replaced by Business-class, where travellers can reserve an empty adjacent seat at extra cost. A trolley refreshment service will be offered throughtout the train and those in the upper, Business-class can also buy a full range of alcoholic drinks. Vending machines will also be fitted to cope with the loss of a restaurant car.
Source VR-Uutiset, 17.5.2000
Source WWW
http://www.vr.fi/news/uutta/uutta.htm
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
Train capacity on the capital's local traffic is reaching its limit. Passenger journeys increased 37% during 1995-99 (party as a result of the "city railway" introduced on the Main Route-ed.) and the situation will worsen further next year when the "city railway" to Leppävaara opens in the Autumn. No decision has yet been made on ordering new trains although VR has an option to buy 40 more of the latest Sm4 EMUs. VR is now considering postponing the refurbishment of 50 older Sm2 EMUs in order to keep more in traffic to cope with the expected increases in passengers. Rolling-stock on the Main Route will be transferred to the Leppävaara/Vantaankoski in order to cover the new intensive timetable.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 19.5.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000519KA4&pvm=20000519&a=2
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
The new timetable, starting 4.6 slows many long-distance trains, especially on the route Helsinki-Iisalmi where travel times increase by up-to 50 minutes. Oulu and Joensuu trains slow by approximately 15 minutes. The reason for this is the reduction of the linespeed to 120km/h on sections which do not have ATP.
Source VR-Uutiset, 17.5.2000
Source WWW
http://www.vr.fi/news/uutta/uutta.htm
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
Estonia's Communications Ministry officials have sidelined VR's management by stating clearly that VR will not be welcome as a shareholder when Estonia's railways are privatised. The "signal" is so clear to VR that it needs to consider if it will participate in the bidding at all. VR has been interested in a share of Eesti Raudtee, 66% of which will be sold in 2 stages - bids must be given by 17 July. Estonians fear that if VR becomes a part-owner it will run-down Estonian transit traffic in order to boost it in Finland. Also Sweden's SJ, American CSX Tranportation, French and German rail operators and an international consortium named Baltic Rail Service are interested in bidding.
Source Tekniikka&Talous, 11.5.2000
Source WWW
www.tekniikkatalous.fi
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
Seinäjoki-Vaasa will be closed to rail traffic 4-19.6 due to engineering works. Buses will replace trains for the duration, when 35km of sleepers will be replaced. After the works trackwork on the whole route will have been up-graded.
Source VR-Uutiset, 10.5.2000
Source WWW
http://www.vr.fi/news/uutta/uutta.htm
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
Following discussions with local representatives, VR plans to extend the Pendolino traffic starting in 2002, onwards from Jyväskylä to Kuopio. Thus Savo would gain quick connections to Helsinki via Jyväskylä and Tampere. The current route via Mikkeli and Kouvola is plagued by frequent level-crossings which will not be replaced for over 10 years if funding is not increased, and Pendolino traffic by this route is not expected to start before 2012. When new railbuses are acquired by VR they are intended to work between Yliviska-Savonlinna and Parikkala-Savonlinna, and possibly Pieksämäki-Joensuu.
Source Savon Sanomat, 09.05.2000
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
Vantaa's technical committee chose Maa- ja Vesi Oy ja LT-Consulting yesterday to prepare a general plan for the route, which is approximately 17.5Km long and includes 7 stations. The route will go under Helsinki-Vantaa airport. The plan costs FIM4.3M and it should be ready by September 2001.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 4.5.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutiset/juttu.asp?id=20000504KA15&pvm=20000504
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
In its submission given-up on 2 May, a Communications Ministry workgroup has recommended that publicly funded road projects should also encourage public transportation, especially in cities. The main goal would be to preserve public transport's share of journeys and to ensure different forms of public transport were developed to support one another, for example with integrated passenger terminals.
Source Ministry of Communications, Press Release, 2.5.2000
Source WWW
http://www.mintc.fi/www/sivut/dokumentit/tiedote/liikenne/ti02050090fin.htm
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
On 19th april I found a rail-car inside a diesel-loco shop in Vilnius orginaly intended for VR but rejected by VR.It had seals over the doors for customs reasons. The lihuanian railways have no intenton to by any of the rejected railcars. Do you know were the other railcars are today?
Source Visit by myself
Source WWW
-
Reported by Bengt Dahlberg
<none>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
Two people died and one was seriously injured when they were hit by a non-stopping local train at Tapanila station around 15.00 on Sunday (19.3). The driver of the Kerava-Helsinki train noticed the group of people on the track and applied an emergency brake but 3 people were hit - a man (b. 1973) and a women (b.1957) died at once. A man (b.1966) is in hospital. According to police accounts one man was on the track for some unknown reason and another couple were trying to help him back onto the platform. Train traffic was interrupted for an hour while rescue services attended the scene.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 20.3.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutisarkisto/20000320/kaup/20000320ka02.html
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
The Green Party's executive has given a request to Helsinki's council that a local referendum be held to decide the fate of VR's old goods magazines (near the main railway station). The request must be handled within one year. As a basis the Greens state in the request that the result would clarify how residents want old buildings to be preserved when planning new buildings. Tens of thousands of names were already collected in a petition. The referendum is not meant solely to concern the magazines but to give residents the chance to take part in planning their surroundings.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 16.3.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutisarkisto/20000316/kaup/20000316ka03.html
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
The traindrivers' strike scheduled to start from 00.01 Thursday (16.3) has been avoided with a 2 year pay and conditions agreement. The parties accepted an plan by State arbitrator Juhani Salonius on Wednesday afternoon. The agreement gives 3% from 1.3 for basic pay and supplements, and from next February 2% and additionally up to 0.7% for operating changes. Next February the parties will meet again to consider if traindrivers' pay has fallen below general pay developments. The agreement also demands implementation of ATP and improved communications on the understanding that driver-only-operation will be introduced. Working hours for DOO will be limited. ATP will be completed Helsinki-Turku and Helsinki-Seinäjoki within a year after which DOO will begin. At present 2 traindrivers are used if the maximum speed is more than 140km/h, for certain long-distance trains and goods trains carrying dangerous substances.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 16.3.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutisarkisto/20000316/koti/20000316ko75.html
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
VR's MD, Henri Kuitunen hopes the Lahti shortcut line could be built with money from the State's on-going sale of Sonera shares. Although not concocted by VR, the idea has its support, but he denies having discussed it with the Communications Ministry. The government is instead tied to the plan to used such funds to reduce the State debt. The Ministry and rail authority - RHK do not believe the scheme will finalised for many years. The new 63km line from Kerava to Lahti would cost around FIM2billion whereas RHK's total annual budget is around FIM2.3billion. Private funding has also been suggested but the Ministry have not warmed to the idea.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 10.3.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutisarkisto/20000310/koti/20000310ko23.html
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
VR-Concern is interested in Estonia's railways - if Estonia decides to privatise its railways VR will make an offer says its managing director, Henry Kuitunen. According to Kuitunen the goal is to take care of Russia's goods traffic to the west, which is expected to grow when Russia's economy improves. VR lost out in its bid to run Estonia's passenger traffic a couple of years ago.
Source MTV3 Uutiset, 10.3.2000
Source WWW
http://scully.mtv3.fi/mfc/page_uutiset?sivu=arkisto&pubid=15028
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
A goods wagon's cover was to blame for last night's power cut south of Seinäjoki which delayed long-distance trains this morning by 0.5-1.5 hours. Power supplies were restored at about 4:30 this morning.
Source MTV3 Uutiset, 7.3.2000
Source WWW
http://scully.mtv3.fi/mfc/page_uutiset?sivu=arkisto&pubid=14795
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
Following last winter's extensive snowstorms VR has been pondering various solutions to get through a difficult winter. Bad snow storms jam the turnouts in the yard leading to Helsinki station and has to be cleared by broom. This happens to be the most susceptible place, therefore trials of a plastic roll-up fencing have started here. The bright orange fencing is the same as used on building sites and on ski slopes.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 14.2.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutisarkisto/20000214/kaup/20000214ka13.html
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
VR's track building and maintenance subsiduary VR-Rata is laying-off all its 3000 workers for 1 week. Additionally approximately 100 redundancies are under consideration. VR-Rata's board blame the lay-offs on weakened profitability as a result of a FIM 200million reduction on State spending on up-keeping the rail network.
Source MTV3 Internet - Uutiset 20.2.2000
Source WWW
http://scully.mtv3.fi/mfc/page_uutiset?sivu=arkisto&pubid=13257
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.22
VR's railway officials agreed on Wednesday a new pay agreement covering 2 years. The increases are FIM 277 paid from 1 February 2000 and again from 1 Febraury 2001, plus an extra 2% in 2001, overall 3,1%p.a.. Around 2100 staff are covered by the deal.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 10.2.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutisarkisto/20000210/koti/20000210ko17.html
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
An express train and a heavily loaded van were in collision at Ii about 50 Kilometres north of Oulu, at around 15.00 on Wednesday. There were about 60 passengers on the train from which 9 were injured but none seriously, the van driver also escaped injury although the van was wrecked. The loco and one carriage toppled over in the accident - the loco span around many times and flew 30 metres into the forest onto its side. The 3 other carriages all derailed but remained upright. The train - from Rovaniemi to Kajaani via Oulu was travelling at about 120km/h when it hit the van on an unguarded level-crossing. Altogether 18 units took part in the rescue work. Clearance work is expected to continue past midnight during which time buses will replace trains.
Source MTV3 uutiset, 9.2.2000
Source WWW
http://scully.mtv3.fi/mfc/page_uutiset?sivu=arkisto&pubid=12438
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
The Consumers Association are of the opinion that passengers should get compensation for delays to trains. VR's trains are a paid service but consumers do not always get what they pay for - YTV (the capital's transport authority) already gives compensation if services are not available, and so should VR. According to the Consumers Association VR cannot always claim every winter to be a "force majoure".
Source Kuluttajaliitto, 4.2.2000
Source WWW
http://www.kuluttajaliitto.fi/kuluuuti/VRtiedote.htm
Reported by Keith Dawson
<keith.dawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
A Helsinki-Turku express train had a window of its restaurant car fired upon just after it departed from Karjaa around 12:00 on Saturday (29.1). The shooting is possibly connected to a similar incident on Monday when a local train from Karjaa to Helsinki had 2 bullets fired into its side.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 30.1.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutisarkisto/20000130/uutiset.html
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
The Railway Officials Union is preparing to give a notice to strike to speed-up pay and conditions negatiations with VR's representative body. The unions 2000 members began an overtime ban on Wednesday (26.1).
Source MTV3 Uutiset, 29.1.2000
Source WWW
http://scully.mtv3.fi/mfc/page_uutiset?sivu=arkisto&pubid=11522
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
The State Attorney has decided to charge the train driver acting as look-out on the express train involved in the Jyväskylä accident with involuntary manslaughter and endangering traffic safety. The accident happened on 6.3.1998 when the Tampere-Pieksämäki express came off the rails due to excessive speed in Jyväskyä station yard because the driver had mistaken which platform-road would be taken by the train. Ten people including the train driver died and 11 were seriously injured.
Source MTV3 Uutiset, 25.1.2000
Source WWW
http://scully.mtv3.fi/mfc/page_uutiset?sivu=arkisto&pubid=11154
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
VR is investing in its Helsinki-Oulu route - from June a new round trip will be made using IC stock leaving Oulu at around 5.00 and arriving back around midnight, with a 6 hour journey time each way. The general line-speed limit will rise to 160km/h between Kerava and Seinäjoki from the summer which will be reflected in the autumn timetable. Next year Pendolinos will run from Helsinki to Tampere in 1 hour 12 minutes and drive on to Seinäjoki in 2002 reducing the current journey time by an hour. Continuing Pendolino services to Oulu will demand replacement of level-crossings which is estimated to cost FIM300million.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 24.1.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi/uutisarkisto/20000124/uutiset.html
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
Building a roof over Helsinki station's platforms will make a limited start in June and when the Leppävaara "cityrailway" is completed in July roofing work will expand. Because the platform area is owned by RHK (Railway Administration Centre) it is also remained responsible for the roof building but has had problems to fund the work - valued at FIM 55million. The roof is planned for completion by July 2001. The ticket office for local traffic moves into space under the newly built concourse roof in summer, along with 2 new kiosks.
Source Alueuutiset 23.1.2000
Source WWW
http://www.janton.fi/alueuutiset/
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
Passenger journeys on VR grew by 4% last year, to 53,2million and passenger-kilometres by 1% to 3,4billion. Most growth was in the capital's local traffic where 41,4million journeys equalled 5% growth and passenger-kilomtres increased by 4%. In long-distance traffic journeys fell by 1% to 11,9million but passenger-kilometres rose however by 0,5%. InterCity traffic grew by nearly one quarter as a result of the increased number of InterCity trains which replaced normal lon-distance trains. Passenger numbers in Russian traffic fell by 19% although December's figures rose by 15%. Goods traffic recovered at the end of the year almost to the previous year's levels. Altogether 40,0million tonnes were transported including 23,2, in domestic traffic.
Source VR uutisia, 20.1.2000
Source WWW
http://www.vr.fi/news/uutta/uutta.htm#n17
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
Since Christmas the half-circle facade above the main entrance to Helsinki's railway station has been used for advertising. However a licence has neither been applied for or granted and since the station is a protected building it is unlikely to receive one. Before Christmas a calendar made-up of drawings by Helsinki schoolchildren adorned the space which building officials have ignored, but commercial advertising is another matter. A VR official accepts space was agreed for funders of the calendar project and they have to be in good taste. Previously the calendar was funded with public funds but after that was cut-off businesses have funded the project. So far no complaints have been received. Building inspectors will discuss the case on Monday (17.1).
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 15.1.2000
Source WWW
www.helsinginsanomat.fi
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.0.7
VR-Group plans to clarify what to do to Helsinki station's west wing. Currently VR shares the space with Finnair and the Police but Finnair will return to its former site once building work there is complete. If consultants decide greater commercial benefit could be gained from converting the ground-floor to shops then VR will probably relocate its staff from at least that part of the building. The general plan for the area allows such a development but the public facade of the building is tightly controlled by preservation laws.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 11.1.2000
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
VR's computer problems which affected ticket offices has been repaired. Yesterday afternoon the computerised ticketing system in the whole of VR's ticket offices broke-down. The crash was caused when a new version of the ticketing program was taken into use.
Source MTV3-uutiset, 10.1.2000
Source WWW
http://scully.mtv3.fi/mfc/page_uutiset?sivu=arkisto&pubid=10053
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
VR Oy and the Commuciations Ministry have made a contract to secure unprofitable train services at their current level until the end of 2004. The agreement is conditional on Parliament allocating sufficient funds for the purpose each year. This year VR receives FIM220million, but the sum reduces by 2% to reflect efficiency improvements, althought inflation indexing is also included in the agreement. In total the agreement is worth FIM1005million and regards various long-distance and regional trains as well as local trains in the capital region outside of YTV's (the region's transport authority) control. In 1999 VR had received FIM224million for similar purposes.
Source Ministry of Communications, 4.1.2000
Source WWW
http://www.mintc.fi/www/sivut/dokumentit/tiedote/liikenne/ti050100967fin.htm
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson.@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
Helsinki's council decided yesterday to allow the city's transport authority (HKL) is to buy 20 more low-floor trams at a cost of FIM225million for delivery during the next 3 years. Of those 20 ordered earlier for delivery in 2000-2001 just 2 are in test use. The new order means the remaining trams from the 1959 series will be withdrawn by the end of 2001, although some will be kept in working-order. The trams will be painted yellow and green.
Source Helsingin Sanomat, 16.12.1999
Source WWW
http://www.helsinginsanomat.fi
Reported by Keith Dawson
<kmdawson@dlc.fi>
Sent from host 195.74.26.12
1690 visits Jan 9th 2001-Mar 10th 2007. Note that I don't work for VR. Created Tue, Dec 9 1997 Kimmo Kotimäki.