Vision Link Delivers Remote Tunnel Flood Monitoring System for Network Rail in Support of HS2
As part of the UK’s largest infrastructure project—High Speed 2 (HS2)—Network Rail tasked Vision Link with developing a cutting-edge solution to monitor water ingress and flood risks deep within a railway tunnel under development. The challenge: to deliver a solar-powered, off-grid camera and telemetry system capable of monitoring water levels over 1,000 metres from the tunnel entrance—with full remote access, real-time alerts, and a smartphone interface.
Meeting the Challenge: Reliable Monitoring in a Remote Tunnel Environment
Tunnel environments present unique technical challenges. With no access to mains power or Wi-Fi infrastructure, Network Rail required a fully independent monitoring solution capable of:
Operating 24/7 in a harsh, enclosed environment
Detecting and reporting rising water levels in real-time
Providing high-definition images of flood-prone sections deep within the tunnel
Sending automatic alerts to engineers via smartphone and web portal
Remaining operational off-grid, without physical site access
Vision Link's Custom Solar-Powered Tunnel Monitoring System
Vision Link engineered a bespoke solar-assisted camera and telemetry solution tailored to meet these exacting requirements. The system integrates:
A remote high-resolution camera capable of sending live images from over 1,000 metres inside the tunnel
A precision water level sensor with millimetre accuracy
GSM/LoRa telemetry to relay data and alerts securely
A fully solar-powered battery system, eliminating the need for external power
Smartphone and web app access, allowing engineers to view data and receive alerts in real-time
The system automatically increases image update frequency and sends push notifications when pre-set water thresholds are exceeded—providing vital early warnings to protect workers, equipment, and schedules.
Supporting HS2 with Smart, Sustainable Infrastructure
HS2 demands robust, future-ready infrastructure. Vision Link’s system is helping Network Rail monitor construction safety and environmental conditions in real time, ensuring progress continues safely and without costly delays due to flooding.
By leveraging off-grid solar technology, Vision Link:
Eliminates the need for regular site visits
Reduces energy costs and environmental impact
Improves safety through proactive risk detection
Supports Network Rail’s goals for resilient, intelligent rail infrastructure
Seamless Integration with Network Rail Workflows
The system is fully integrated into Vision Link’s secure online platform and mobile app, giving on-site and remote teams 24/7 access to images, data, and notifications. With GDPR-compliant data handling and proven performance in field conditions, it’s the ideal solution for mission-critical monitoring during major infrastructure projects like HS2.
Want to future-proof your flood monitoring or tunnel safety systems?
Contact Vision Link to discuss your remote solar camera and telemetry requirements.
