What establishes the authority for operating under mandatory directives?

The authority for operating under mandatory directives is established by the train dispatcher or control operator. This individual holds the responsibility for managing the train movements within their assigned area and communicates essential operational commands to ensure safety and coordination on the railway. The directives provided by the train dispatcher or control operator are critical as they reflect real-time operational conditions, addressing any changes due to track conditions, train status, or other relevant factors.

While other options might involve oversight or influence in different contexts, the train dispatcher or control operator is specifically tasked with providing the mandatory directives that govern train operations. Their instructions are crucial for directing the actions of train crews, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, and maintaining the overall integrity of the rail network.