The Seymour and Shepparton train lines will be improved through the delivery of a new modern signalling system to control trains between Craigieburn and Seymour, thanks to the Victorian Government.
Works will include installation of new axle counters, track circuits, LED signals and a train control system to detect the location of trains and advise drivers accordingly, producing an automated system which improves safety for passengers by introducing fail-safe train detection.
The works will also replace the antiquated manual double line block signalling with an automated system, and remove the aerial power and telegraph wires, which have been repeatedly subject to theft and vandalism.
Enabling works have commenced in Kilmore East for the electronically operated signalling, which will be supported by modern telecommunications systems.
The $9.4 million project will support the local economy with a number of contractors involved in its delivery. UGL, SIEMENS and Integrated Rail Engineering Services are designing the signalling system which includes complex connections into the metropolitan system and existing V/Line signalling.
Victorian Minister for Public Transport, Ben Carroll, said the automated system is another step towards modernising the regional rail network.
“Seymour and Shepparton passengers can look forward to improved reliability with the new system allowing trains to run closer together, helping them get to where they need to go quicker and safer,” Mr Carrol said.
All systems contractors will complete the construction while signalling installation works will be undertaken by V/Line signalling engineers.
Train signalling systems are required on all rail tracks to inform drivers when it is safe to proceed into the next section of track. The new signalling will control trains between the end of the metropolitan system, north of Craigieburn and Dysart, where the existing automated signalling system for Seymour Station commences.
During the works, V/Line will also complete more than $7 million in track improvements. Works include replacing more than 20km of rail between Wallan and Broadford.
