OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Federal inspectors uncovered a concerning number of defects in Union Pacific’s locomotives and railcars at the world’s largest railyard in western Nebraska this summer. However, the railroad showed reluctance in addressing these issues.
Amit Bose, the Federal Railroad Administrator, expressed concern in a letter to UP’s top three executives, stating that these defects pose a “significant risk to rail safety ” on the Union Pacific railroad.
Inspectors discovered a defect rate of 19.93% in rail cars and 72.69% in locomotives during inspections conducted in July and August. Both rates are twice the national average. However, the letter did not outline the specific defects found at the Bailey Yard in North Platte due to the numerous federal rules involved.
In his letter, Bose criticized Union Pacific for its poor compliance with freight car and locomotive standards and its refusal to take necessary steps to improve equipment conditions.
Bose raised concerns about layoffs at Union Pacific, questioning whether the reduced workforce of 94 locomotive craft employees and 44 carmen in Omaha, Nebraska, impacted the railroad’s ability to address needed repairs.
Kristen South, a Union Pacific spokesperson, stated that the layoffs did not affect safety commitments and that the company prioritizes safety above all else. South assured that the concerns raised by the FRA would be reviewed and addressed.
Railroad safety has become a prominent concern nationwide following a train derailment and fire involving Norfolk Southern in eastern Ohio earlier this year. This incident prompted calls for reforms from regulators and members of Congress, but limited changes have been implemented since then.
South emphasized that Union Pacific maintains appropriate staffing levels, allowing for the natural fluctuation in business operations. The recent layoffs represent only a small fraction of the railroad’s workforce, which exceeds 30,000 employees.
Jim Vena, Union Pacific’s new CEO, assumed leadership last month. The railroad operates a vast network spanning 32,400 miles (52,000 kilometers) across 23 Western states.
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