Title: Norwegian Infrastructure Braces for Winter: Lessons Learned from Last Year’s Chaos
Articles have been filed on the potential chaos that could come with snowfall, with closed airports, suspended trains, and slippery roads. While the year’s heaviest snowfall has yet to arrive, plans are being made to avoid a repeat of last winter’s traffic havoc.
Trains Get Help from New Machinery
The winter of 2023-24 was challenging for Norway’s rail system, with disruptions particularly severe on January 17. Bane Nor spokesperson Olav Nordli acknowledges the difficulties and outlines the company’s response:
"We’ve developed joint plans with Norway’s rail operators to thin out train traffic to make way for snow removal. We’re also acquiring twelve new heavy-duty snow removal machines to significantly boost our clearing capacity."
While this may result in fewer departures on some routes, Nordli emphasizes that it’s better to have some disruptions than none at all. The company is also investing in better training and increased maintenance for equipment.
Olav Nordli, Bane Nor Press Spokesperson. Photo: Bane Nor
Buses Prepare for Winter’s Icy Grip
Last winter was particularly tough on buses, as exemplified by Oslo’s struggling public transport system. Ruter, the public transport authority, admits that winter 2023-24 was "very demanding" and assures that lessons have been learned.
"Together with our partners, we have taken extensive measures to improve our services this winter," says Eilif Swensen from Ruter. Their plans include enhancing material, charging infrastructure, and driving schedules, along with increased training and more drivers.
Improved customer information and closer collaboration with relevant parties are also part of their strategy to optimize road conditions and ensure commuters’ safety.
Chaos: Ruter wants to avoid a repetition of last winter’s problems. Photo: Stian Sveen
Air Traffic Braces for Winter’s Challenges
Winter weather also poses challenges to air traffic. Avinor spokesperson Øystein Løwer highlights the importance of safe operations, even if it means delayed departures:
"If you experience flight delays on tough winter days, remember that this is done to ensure your safety. We always prioritize safety."
Løwer stresses that Avinor follows proven procedures for adverse weather conditions, with no major changes planned for this winter season.
Ice on upper surfaces: Planes need to be de-iced before takeoff. Photo: Cornelius Poppe / NTB
Leveraging Experience to Navigate Winter
As winter closures and disruptions made headlines last year, Norway’s infrastructure providers are working diligently to prevent a repeat. From investing in new machinery and improving driver training to enhancing communication with customers and collaborating with relevant parties, they’re leaving no stone unturned to tackle winter’s challenges head-on.
