Dutch Railways is considering adding lasers to its trains to solve the problem of debris getting stuck on tracks.
Foliage can be a big issue for trains, making it harder for them to stop while interfering with anti-collision signals, according to Engadget.
Shooting jets of water and covering tracks with sand gels are common methods for getting leaves and other greenery out of the way, but these methods are limited in supplies and can put the rails in worse condition.
The laser system, which the Delft University of a Technology (TU) created in collaboration with Strukton Rail, will be mounted in front of the train's wheels and will have two functions: removing leaves and other organic material and drying the rails to temporarily prevent debris from accumulating, The Verge reported. Trains would be able to use the cleaning device at speeds up to about 50 miles per hour.
With these lasers, trains can get better traction, and Dutch Railways would be able to handle its trains much better.
TU professor Rolf Dollevoet said whether or not the system could work is not the main concern, and that how long the effects will last is what the rail company is looking into.
Dutch Railways has yet to reveal if it will use the lasers.