Dawlish rail repairs
More than 300 engineers worked around the clock throughout February, March and early April 2014 to restore the railway line at Dawlish following its collapse on 4 February.
The engineers, including ICE members, worked day and night to repair the track at Dawlish (see image of work taking place) and get it up and running before Easter - two weeks ahead of schedule.
The team rebuilt and fortified the breach, installed over 13 miles of new cables and a new temporary signalling system, replaced over 700m of track and ballast, rebuilt half of Dawlish station with a new platform and canopy, and removed 25,000 tonnes of collapsed cliff in Teignmouth. They even had to build a temporary sea wall from 18 welded shipping containers to protect homes and engineers as they worked.
Take a look at the time-lapse film of the line repairs.
In recognition of their efforts, in October 2014 the team of engineers was awarded ICE's Brunel Medal, which recognises individuals or teams who have shown excellence in civil engineering. The work at Dawlish is a shining example of civil engineers doing what they do best, providing a vital role for society and helping people go about their daily lives.
Dawlish railway repairs