Warning signals from the trains are required at two remote level crossings in the municipality of Teufenbach in Upper Styria. Concerned residents are now defending themselves against the noise pollution.
With the windows open at night, it is particularly uncomfortable. “You can hardly sleep,” says a resident of Teufenbach (Murau district). Even cozy meetings in the garden are constantly interrupted by several loud whistles.
The railway runs east of the village towards Carinthia. It crosses two paths in the forest: these crossings are unsecured, ie without traffic lights or barriers. Whenever a train passes, it emits three whistles.
Petition started
“With at least 50 trains a day, that’s 150 whistles”, the resident calculates. “They are audible and annoying everywhere. Many are desperate.” A petition has now been launched to stop the noise pollution, and signatures are currently being collected on the internet and when going door to door.
ÖBB pass the ball to the community
The ÖBB states that whistle signals are required by law if, as in the specific case, the required visual space is not available. The only solution would be to close the level crossings. The council should agree. This was already discussed in 2013, but the municipality has spoken out against this in order to preserve the walking routes.
“We are happy to resume talks on closing the two level crossings if it is in the best interest of the community,” Federal Railways said. Mayor Lydia Künstner-Stöckl would like to talk to the ÖBB, but would also like to wait for the response to the petition. There are also voices for the preservation of the hiking trails.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
