When you encounter a timetable discrepancy en route and the dispatcher approves an alternative route, what is the correct action?

• A. Ignore the dispatcher and proceed on current timetable.
• B. Notify the shift supervisor after completing the trip.
• C. Revert to the original timetable immediately.
• D. Communicate with the dispatcher, note the discrepancy, and follow alternative route if approved.

Answer: (D)

When a timetable discrepancy arises while en route, you must coordinate with the dispatcher for any routing changes because they have authority over alternate paths. If the dispatcher approves an alternative route, acknowledge that approval, proceed along the approved route, and document the discrepancy and the approval in your records. This keeps operations safe and properly tracked.

Ignoring the dispatcher, reporting after the trip, or returning to the original timetable despite an approved change would violate procedure and could create unsafe conditions or conflicts with track usage and signals.