Virtual Railfan Tour of Switzerland - Saturday - Chavornay to Orbe with cab rides

Chavornay station is just south of Yverdon-les-Bains on the main line to Lausanne and Geneva.  This is the junction of the short (4 km) line to Orbe which is now run by TRAVYS (Transports Vallee du Joux Yverdon-les-Bains Sainte Croix). The line is unique in Switzerland as it is standard gauge but powered by 750V  DC. All other standard gauge lines in Switzerland are powered by 15,000V AC. The line generates significant freight traffic, including Nestles,  which must be hauled to the junction by the line's own electric vehicles or diesels.
This short video gives a good idea of the small railcar and trailer making its way through the countryside and associated industries.
We will take the train through to Orbe.
Chavornay


Orbe is set on a hill overlooking the wide plain

At Orbe we see the second railcar

However, the real surprise is the amount of intriguing equipment which is lying around




Most intriguing of all was when we got off the train at Orbe the driver realized we were interested and took us into the cab.  He then said to take a look around and left us alone in the train while he went into town for coffee!


To get back to Chavornay we have found two video rides, both starting at Orbe, the first is from the driving cab while the second is looking out of the back cab.  On the way back it is worthwhile looking out for any freight action such as this diesel.

View from the driving cab

View from the back cab
Things are changing on this line.  The trains have largely been replaced by buses and the power system will be altered to 15,000V AC which will allow locomotives of the main line railways to enter the branch.
Chavornay is a good train watching place as there is plenty of action on the main line while the exchange sidings are used to originate and terminate rains for the main line network. Shown below are some examples seen from the safety of the passenger platform.





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