Megatrains

In the Mauritanian desert, a train more than 2.5 kilometres long winds between the dunes. It is carrying 22,000 tons of iron ore, the country’s main source of wealth. It will travel 700 kilometres at a speed of less than 45 kilometres per hour. Meanwhile, in Canada, 45 freight cars cross the 1,000 kilometres that separate Prince Rupert and Whittier, Alaska, in all weathers. Their loads are vital to the Canadian economy.

Some of these trains prevent the economic isolation of remote territories and bring countries together. Others brave the elements and cross hostile territory. Yet more carry dangerous materials or transport goods that are essential to a country. These trains make a vital difference to the everyday lives of thousands of people and their freight reflects the history of the land they cross. We follow the train crews in each episode as they work night and day to bring their loads in safely and on time. Adventure is always just around the corner but danger can loom at any second.

Locations explored:
Maurtania, United States, Australia, India, Belgium and British Columbia