Back in Jan 2010, I asked was this a signal box? I now have answer. As these pictures demonstrate it is in fact a weighbridge. Knowledge rarely provides answers, just changes the questions. What was weighed? It is close to the end of a stub siding so how did that affect operation? Could it be the question mark rather than the opposable thumb that separates us from other animals?
On one of my early visits to Oslo included an "Oslo Pass". This gave free transport within the city boundaries. According to the handbook came with the pass, Movatn was the boundary station on the Gjovik line. It was free, it had to be visited. I have returned every time since. Admittedly once by chance having walked up alongside the the Akerselva and not stopping until I realised I had no idea where I was. It turned out I was not far from here. The post of the Cl 69 near Oslo was taken on the same walk. The usual half hour interval service takes a break in the early evening. I discovered on the walk by just missing the train and having an hour to wait until the next one. No hardship, it was summertime, the fish were jumping and the living was easy. This year the Oslo sleeper train took up the free path.
A good few years separate these shots. I was not intending to go to Holmenkollen this year as I had only 2 days to "do" Oslo. Short of time and the fact that the T bahn has broken a hole made getting around harder. I had decided to concentrate on the central area. What is going to like in July when the NSB stop running into the city I dread to think. However when I looking around the Vigeland Park I suddenly realised that I could not see the ski jump. The beautiful white landmark had gone. If I remember correctly, detective Harry Hole was not very complimentary about it as a ski jump, but it was just about as iconic as a structure can get. I had to go and see what had happened. Another shock at the station, alright I knew the lovely teak bodied sets are a distant, but fond memory. But the whole area has changed, it is sort of a motorway service area for skiers, complete with flyovers. I wish them well for the 2012 world championships.
A sign of the times is that every time I visit Norway I see a new operator and /or new motive power. My latest visit did not give me much time to study current operations. But I did break my journey to Gardermoen to spend some time at Lillestrom station. June 21st 2011.
Seen at Bodo 12th June 2010. A Cargo Link Mak diesel. Looks very much like the unsuccessful Di6.
In 2003 I took a day trip from Oslo to Halden, on the border with Sweden. Relations with between the two countries has over the years been very neighbourly. This is a view from the fort. A Swedish train heading for Oslo. Lynx also served the route.
Northbound goods train at Kongsvold, July 1995. Long train, big scenery. In the days before containers took over. I am standing in one National Park and behind the train is another.
