How should you handle a timetable discrepancy encountered en route?

• A. Communicate with the dispatcher, note the discrepancy, and follow alternative route if approved.
• B. Ignore the discrepancy and continue.
• C. Change trains to a different timetable without approval.
• D. Wait until the end of the day to resolve.

Answer: (A)

When you encounter a timetable discrepancy on the move, the right move is to immediately contact the dispatcher, note the discrepancy in your records, and proceed only along an alternative route if it has been approved. This keeps operations safe and orderly because the dispatcher has the full picture of current track conditions, conflicts, and any temporary changes. Documenting what you saw creates a proper record so others understand the situation and can coordinate properly.

Deviating without approval can create conflicting movements, disrupt the timetable, and raise safety concerns. Waiting until later or ignoring the issue delays resolution and can leave everyone unaware of the actual conditions. The core idea is to resolve discrepancies through communication and authorized changes, preserving safety and service reliability.