The public is being called upon to help Network Rail‘s Anglia region in its efforts to tackle fly-tipping.

Reducing the vast amount of fly-tipping in the region will not only help to maintain a cleaner, safer railway for everyone, it will also minimise the risk of disruption to train services.

According to a Network Rail report, fly-tipping, cable theft, and graffiti are types of railway vandalism that disrupt passenger journeys and damages infrastructure. The report shows that most of the public is unaware of the problem, with nearly a quarter not realising that fly-tipping is a criminal offence, punishable by fines or prosecution.

Although 92% of Boomers and 82% of Gen X recognise fly-tipping is a crime, only 54% of Gen Z are aware of its legal consequences, and over half the respondents were unaware that transport delays are often directly caused by fly-tipping. Additional safety risks may also arise from signal failures caused by rats chewing through cables after being attracted by waste left on railway lines, or short circuits caused by discarded metal such as cans and foil.

Enhanced visibility in high-risk areas is being achieved through coordination with external security teams and the British Transport Police. This is aimed at deterring offenders and improving response times through targeted patrols.

Other security measures monitoring problem areas include cameras, motion sensors, and other surveillance tools. These can identify offenders by gathering intelligence to aid enforcement. Network Rail is also installing more secure fencing, enhancing the security of access points, and improving security at works compounds.

Fly-tipping is an environmental concern, with its impact on public health and danger to wildlife. The mistaken belief that fly-tipping does not harm the environment is shared by 22% of people, and is particularly prevalent among Gen Z where 42% believe this misconception compared to just 11% of Boomers.

Network Rail has information online about how it is tackling fly-tipping on the railway.

Chief Inspector Adam Swallow, British Transport Police has issued a reminder that fly-tipping is a criminal and selfish act which can cause delays to the railway network and harm the environment, and its repercussions are serious, with those caught facing significant fines or prison.

Anyone witnessing a fly-tipping incident is asked to report it by texting 61016.

Earlier this month, Global Recycling Day was marked with a display at London King’s Cross station to raise awareness about fly-tipping on the railway network. In contrast, last year station adopters tended gardens and green areas at 66 stations in the Greater Anglia region.

“Fly-tipping wreaks havoc on our railways and environment, stopping passengers getting where they need to be on time and wrecking wildlife habitats. Network Rail works closely with local authorities to prevent this crime and prosecute those responsible. If you see someone fly-tipping, it’s imperative you report this to your local council, Crimestoppers or the British Transport Police by working together we can help protect the environment and limit the impact of this selfish act.”

Jo Lewington, Network Rail s chief environment and sustainability officer