On 9 June 2021, the annual cantonal conference of the Wagonload Transport Interest Group (IG WLV) took place – unfortunately again as a video conference. In addition to the founding partners of IG WLV (VAP, Association of Public Transport (VöV/UTP), SBB Cargo), a large number of representatives from individual cantons took part.
To start with, VöV and SBB Cargo presented the current situation – especially in the context of the Covid 19 crisis – and pointed out the challenges ahead. The VAP then presented the three main objectives on behalf of IG WLV, from which three clusters of action can be derived. IG WLV is currently working intensively on the concretisation and concrete implementation of these goals.
Technology/Automation cluster
IG WLV is pushing for the rapid introduction of nationwide and non-discriminatory automation and digitalisation in Switzerland. This is done in close coordination and cooperation with Europe. It advocates the implementation of the motion Dittli 20.3221 vis-à-vis the industry, politics and administration (cf. blog post «Progress for automation in rail freight transport»).
Production/efficiency cluster
The IG WLV defines key performance indicators and draws up a concept that depicts estimates of demand flows in wagonload traffic for the coming years. It is also considering how additional volumes could be generated that combine planning security, dynamism and cooperation.
Policy cluster
IG WLV is working on a concept for CO2 reduction (see blogpost «Motion CO2-free rail freight»). It will represent this concept vis-à-vis the federal government, industry players and cantons and promote its implementation.
Findings from 2020
After defining the target areas, the participants reflected on the findings from last year’s cantonal conference. Attention was given to the following focal points:
- Data: Various challenges to obtain the right data – quantitative and qualitative – for future concepts and planning.
- Locations and legal bases: Tasks and obligations of the Confederation, cantons and municipalities and optimal use of existing and future logistics areas.
- Free loading: Consideration of all free loading in an overall concept that includes the respective financing needs and tools.
- Expansion steps/STEP: Bringing together the concerns of all actors from politics and business, cross-cantonal coordination and use of the same basic tools.
Best Practice
In an interesting contribution, the cantons of Vaud and Zurich presented their challenges and approaches to solutions for optimising and improving logistics opportunities. These could be used as best practices or interesting starting points in the future.
Further round table discussions
All the information and impulses were discussed in greater depth at two round tables with the following focal points:
- Round table 1: Solution approaches to the challenges of the findings from 2020
- Round table 2: Best practice of the cantons of Zurich and Vaud; possible blueprint for further steps towards optimised, integrated freight transport logistics
Details on the concrete results of the panel discussions and on possible measures can be found in the next blog post.
