According to a report by the British Daily Mail, British engineers are leading a groundbreaking initiative to develop "explosion-proof" train cars, aiming to minimize casualties in the event of terrorist attacks. The project, known as "Secure Metro," was launched to explore how railway systems could better withstand bomb explosions, especially after the devastating attacks in London and Madrid. After three years of extensive research, experts have provided recommendations to the rail industry on improving passenger safety.
British anti-theft vehicle research success has made significant progress. The study allows experts to examine explosions in detail, analyzing how they damage train compartments. Conor O'Neill, director of the New Orbital Research Center at Newcastle University, leads this EU-funded project, which seeks to reduce the impact of future attacks.
The 2005 London bombings killed 52 people and injured nearly 800, while the 2004 Madrid attacks claimed 191 lives and left over 1,800 injured. These tragedies highlighted the vulnerability of public transport systems. The current study involves collecting data from past bombings and conducting controlled experiments on old train cars. High-speed cameras will capture the explosion process in slow motion, enabling researchers to assess structural and interior damage in detail.
Based on their findings, the team is developing a prototype train carriage designed to limit the damage caused by internal explosions. They also recommend immediate measures for railway companies, such as using energy-absorbing materials and applying plastic coatings to windows to prevent debris from flying out.
O’Neill explains that connector plates can help prevent shrapnel damage. Another key goal is to reduce casualties caused by bomb wreckage, not just during the initial blast. Analysis of the London 7/7 attack showed that debris blocked emergency responders. If a bomb detonates at a station instead of in a tunnel, the risk increases due to shrapnel-like ejection.
He emphasizes the importance of constraining ceilings to reduce flying debris and improve access for rescuers. The plastic window coating developed by the team helps contain glass shards, protecting both passengers and people outside the train. This innovation allows for clear visibility of the explosion’s chain reaction while keeping each window intact, making it easier to break in an emergency.
Engineers are also exploring energy-absorbing materials that can reduce the force of shock waves. Although the 7/7 bombers were in the same car, the Madrid and London attacks revealed the extreme vulnerability of trains, especially in busy urban areas.
While fully explosion-proof trains may not be feasible, the team believes existing vehicles can be upgraded with cost-effective and simple modifications. Railway companies are open to these changes, as they can significantly reduce the consequences of potential attacks. The aim is not to eliminate destruction, but to find affordable and practical solutions that can be quickly implemented on current train systems.
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