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Stop Trains Horns Honking!

In Queensland, Trains honk their horns on a number of occasions: when they approach a level crossing or when they leave a station.
These horns can be very loud!
Passengers travelling in the front carriage can easily be annoyed by the noise. I noticed recently a passenger travelling in the front carriage and wearing earplugs.
I am sometimes wondering if train drivers have hearing issues as they get older. It would be interesting to get some statistics…

Now in busy train stations, such as Central Station in Brisbane, one may be waiting for a train on the platform, while previous trains are loading passagers and leaving for their destination.
When trains leave the station, they honk their horns and trust me it is a devastating experience for your ears!!!

Being extremely annoyed myself about these very agressive noises, I have contacted Queensland Rail and complained about it. Their response is that it is for safety: trains have to honk their horns before leaving the station.

While I can understand why giving a warning when approaching a level crossing is a safety procedure – even though I don’t agree that, in the 21st century, this is the best way to go. I haven’t been given any explaination as to why it is imperative to horn honk before leaving a station.

Also, I have been in quite a number of countries and it is the first time I encounter such a noisy practice – in the name of safety.

If you had a similar experience in Australia or another country, and if like me you are annoyed by it, please leave a comment below…

It is also possible to complain to Queensland Rail directly from here:
qr.com.au