The United States is facing a crisis as train derailments continue to plague the nation, with the root cause attributed to the lack of regulation in the freight train industry. The industry’s obsession with cost-cutting and profit maximization has recklessly neglected safety concerns, according to a recent segment on Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. The implementation of “Precision Scheduled Railroading” by Canadian railroad executive Hunter Harrison has led to a culture of neglect and recklessness, prioritizing maintenance and workforce reduction over safety, with far-reaching consequences.
The result of this misguided approach has been nothing short of disastrous, as freight train derailments have increased in frequency and severity. Train lengths have correspondingly increased, causing chaos in densely populated areas like Houston, where a single train can block traffic for miles, posing significant risks to public health and safety. The failure of the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) to adequately inspect and regulate freight train operations has allowed companies to cut corners and prioritize profits over safety, with only 1% of trains and railroads subject to inspections.
Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (Via John Oliver/Twitter)
The segment on Last Week Tonight served as a stark reminder of the dangers of prioritizing profits over people, highlighting the need for greater accountability and oversight in the freight train industry. The show’s warning serves as a somber reminder of the importance of regulating the industry to ensure the safety of passengers and the public. The United States cannot afford to ignore the alarming trend of train derailments, and it is imperative that the FRA and other regulatory bodies take immediate action to address the systemic failures within the industry.
The freight train industry’s focus on maximizing profits has led to a crisis of epic proportions, with train derailments becoming more frequent and devastating. The lack of regulation has allowed companies to prioritize cost-cutting over safety concerns, with disastrous consequences. As a nation, we cannot afford to ignore the crisis unfolding before our eyes, and it is essential that the freight train industry is brought under control to prevent further incidents.
