Noise and vibration

Urban density comes with certain physical impacts, primarily noise. Transport is among the sources of acoustic discomfort in urban areas. In view of this, the Company places special emphasis on minimising adverse physical factors and takes steps to reduce acoustic impact and vibration.

In 2024, railway environmental protection centres developed 28 noise maps to inform collaborative efforts with local authorities to bring down noise levels in residential areas to acceptable levels and implement effective noise protection measures.

As part of implementing the roadmap for comprehensive studies on railway‑related noise pollution, provided for in Russian Railways’ R&D plan, we conducted field measurements of noise levels and characteristics from rolling stock and its individual units and mechanisms. In 2025, we plan to analyse obtained data and form a database of noise spectral characteristics. Research results will help develop organisational and technical solutions aimed at reducing external noise from railway rolling stock.

Following efforts organised by Russian Railways to interact with federal executive bodies on reducing excessive acoustic impact of railway transport on residential housing areas and residential and public buildings, Order No. 756 of Head of the Federal Service for Oversight of Consumer Rights Protection and Welfare Anna Popova dated 3 October 2024 created a working group to prepare proposals on methodology, standardisation, and assessment of noise impact from railway transport operation.