What are catch and slip sidings? How are runaway trains managed?
Catch sidings are sidings provided to divert runaway trains off the main line on approach to a station, or on steep downward slopes. Points are normally set to route all trains to the siding, which may end in a sand trap to slow down and halt any train that is moving too fast and out of control. This prevents runaways from entering station or yard limits, or from hurtling down a slope and derailing. A train that has to proceed on the main line must come to a halt before the catch siding (usually a signal is provided for this), and wait to get authorization to proceed. In some cases, this happens when the driver sounds the horn or whistle to let the signalman or station crew know the train is waiting for the authorization to proceed. In some cases, especially in remote areas, the loco crew is provided with a key by the signal cabin in advance; this key unlocks the points to allow the train to proceed on the main line. In a few cases, there are also automatic points that have sensors tha
