The wrong track

In your report on the recent freight derailment (6 January) a Network Rail spokesman says: "The Inverness to Aviemore route is blocked until further notice. There will be some disruption but it is a remote part of the network." The implication is that the disruption doesn't matter "as it is remote". In fact, it is the main line from Inverness to the South, and forms a vital part of the transport infrastructure.

Its perception as "remote" perhaps explains why, although there has been routine maintenance on the line, no investment has been made to improve journey times and time-keeping since the restoratiion of the Dalwhinnie double track in 1977. It is a similar story on the line to Aberdeen.

Investment is taking place, rightly, on the A9 and A96. Rail lines also deserve investment.

JOHN R C LOGIE

Culloden Moor

Inverness