The Swan Hill train line in Victoria has undergone track, signal and structure improvement works to help maintain reliability.
More than 50 V/Line staff and contractors commenced $3 million worth of upgrades and maintenance on June 21 and worked through until June 25, with trains returning to service the following day.
A new concrete bridge deck was constructed with re-laid track over the top of the bridge over the Waranga Western Irrigation Channel near Tandarra.
The McCallum Street and Pental Island Road level crossings in Swan Hill are undergoing major upgrades to signalling and train detection technology – with McCallum Street receiving boom barriers to boost safety for drivers.
This will also allow them to operate more efficiently, reducing the risk of disruptions due to signal faults while ensuring the crossings still operate safely.
Crews will also replace sleepers on five rail bridges in Kerang and Tragowel and distributing additional ballast along the line providing a smoother ride for passengers.
This upgrade will ensure trains are running on good foundations through crucial parts of the Swan Hill line and will reduce the risk of disruption caused by infrastructure faults.
Victorian Minister for Public Transport, Melissa Horne, said, “Our program of continual maintenance and renewal works is vital to keep the regional train network moving effectively, delivering a more comfortable and reliable journey for passengers.
“These works will create a smoother ride for passengers and help future proof the consistently high reliability of the Swan Hill line.”
Member for Northern Victoria, Mark Gepp, said, “I thank passengers for their patience while we got on with the job of improving the network – every little bit of work counts towards delivering a better public transport system for everyone.”
