MNCW CMV 1001 (Catenary Maintenence Vehicle) was working west of Bridgeport CT on the overhead wires. This ground lead is called a "portable ground" and connects to the dead overhead wire and to the rail or prefirably to the copper ground lead at the closest support tower. It provides protection for the workers. Also it grounds any stray voltages that might be picked up through induction from other live conductors nearby. The voltage on this line is 25,000 or 25kV from the wire to the rail (ground). [tech info courtesy Gerald Kelley ]

Photographed by Jonny D, February 5, 2005.
Added to the photo archive by Jonny D, February 6, 2005.
Railroad: Metro North.

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