Multiple fires are burning along the railway line between Kongsberg, Notodden, Nordagutu and Hjuksebø, according to police reports received Wednesday afternoon.
Disruption to Rail Service
The fires are impacting rail traffic, including the Sørlandsbanen line, which runs through Drammen. According to Bane Nor, the railway line is currently closed between Kongsberg and Nordagutu.
Authorities were first alerted to the fires around 12:14 PM on Wednesday. Police reported at 12:40 PM that the blaze had grown more extensive than initially assessed, requiring a larger response from multiple agencies.
Fire and rescue trains have been dispatched from Oslo, along with forestry helicopters and personnel from the Civil Defence. Police helicopters are also assisting by providing aerial oversight to assess the scope of the fires, according to police reports.
“The fire is primarily linked to the railway line, and there is currently no immediate danger of it spreading to populated areas,” stated operations leader Vegar Dale Møane of the police. The local crisis management team has been notified.
Police reported that a freight train passed through the area shortly before the fires began. Dry conditions and a north-to-south wind are also contributing factors, according to police.
As of just before 9:00 PM Wednesday evening, Bane Nor reported that the railway line remained closed, with a recent update expected at 2:00 AM on Thursday, April 30th.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are affected by the railway closure?
The railway line is closed between Kongsberg and Nordagutu, impacting the Sørlandsbanen line.
What is being done to combat the fires?
Fire and rescue trains, forestry helicopters, personnel from the Civil Defence, and police helicopters are all being deployed to fight the fires and assess the situation.
Is there a risk to nearby communities?
According to police, there is currently no immediate danger of the fires spreading to populated areas.
How will the ongoing disruption to rail service impact commuters and freight transport in the region?
