The UK’s Transport for London (TfL) has started the tender process for installation of new safety systems on the capital’s tram network.

The new system will automatically apply brakes to bring a running tram to a controlled stop when it will exceed the speed limit at high-risk locations.

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Additionally, it will also notify the operations control centre.

TfL started evaluating the feasibility of introducing this system following the derailment of a tram at Sandilands in November 2016.

Alongside deploying this new safety system, various other initiatives will be undertaken to ensure a permanent speed reduction across the tram network, which includes speed monitoring and installation of signage at dangerous bends.

“This new braking system is one of the safety measures we have been working continually on for the tram network to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.”

A driver protection device is also deployed to notify any incidents of fatigue, driver distraction or speeding.

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Initially, the new system will be deployed at priority locations according to the suggestions from the Rail Accident Investigations Branch (RAIB), and then it will be configured elsewhere on the tram network.

TfL rail and sponsored services director Jonathan Fox said: “This new braking system is just one of the additional safety measures we have been working continually on for the tram network to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.

“We continue to liaise with other tram operators across the country to assist them in addressing the RAIB recommendation for their networks.”

After the completion of the qualification process, a formal Invitation to Tender will be issued by TfL. Subsequently, the contract will be awarded to the selected company, which is expected to be carried out by the year-end.

The system is expected to become operational on the network by the end of next year.

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