The Nordland Line is closed between Majavatn and Mosjøen following a landslide near Eiterstraum, while the Dovre Line remains disrupted near Otta due to flooding and ice accumulation, Norwegian rail infrastructure manager, Bane NOR, informs.
Landslide disrupts Nordland line
A landslide on the steep terrain south of Eiterstraum has resulted in the closure of the Nordland Line between Majavatn and Mosjøen. The landslide occurred on the slope above the Vefsna River, requiring substantial earthworks to rebuild the affected section.
Repair work is underway, with operations focusing on creating a stable base at the river's edge before rebuilding the slope toward the tracks. Preliminary estimates indicate the closure will last at least until the end of the week, with a reassessment expected later.
The area has experienced multiple smaller landslides and slips, which are being addressed simultaneously. Unstable ground conditions have complicated the response, with large amounts of rainfall, snowmelt, and high-water saturation identified as contributing factors.
Traffic on parts of the Nordland Line resumed earlier, but sections south of Mosjøen remain under red alert following further landslides.
Flooding and ice impact Dovre line
Meanwhile, operations on the Dovre Line are disrupted near Otta due to the movement of a bridge abutment, attributed to flooding and ice accumulation in the Otta River.
Efforts to stabilize the situation include removing ice to reduce water pressure and placing rock upstream of the affected area. Engineers are also considering additional measures to secure the structure and surrounding terrain.
The closure affects the section between Vinstra and Otta, with no clear timeline for reopening. Current projections suggest the disruption may extend until at least early February, pending further assessments.
Both incidents highlight the challenges posed by weather conditions on critical railway infrastructure, with safety remaining the priority for ongoing operations and repairs.
