Whose permission is necessary for a reverse movement unless within the same signaled block?

In railroad operations, a reverse movement—defined as moving a train in the opposite direction—requires special handling to ensure safety and proper communication. The necessity for permission from the train dispatcher or control operator stems from the need for oversight in managing train movements and ensuring that all safety protocols are followed.

The train dispatcher or control operator is responsible for the overall movement of trains within their jurisdiction, including the authority to grant permission for movements within signaled blocks. This permission is crucial for maintaining safe distances between trains, coordinating scheduling, and avoiding potential collisions. When a train needs to reverse, it may interact with other trains on the same block, and without proper control, the risk of accidents increases.

While the engineer and crew play important roles in operational safety, they do not have the authority to authorize reverse movements without the dispatcher’s consent, as they are not responsible for the overall management of train movements on the network. Therefore, the requirement for dispatcher or control operator approval ensures that all reversals are executed safely and with the necessary situational awareness.