That bit is much easier with the right machine though!
The real cost comes if:
a) the track has to be lowered because the sides of the bridges are lower than the centre;
b) embankments need 50 years of back maintenance before the edges can stand the load of the track again;
c) the slopes of cuttings need regrading back to their original slope after neglect 50 years of no maintenance;
d) signalling equipment needs moving.