Multiple Melbourne train lines will be affected as the Metro Tunnel project enters crucial testing phase.
Train services will be disrupted on multiple lines during April as Metro Tunnel testing intensifies.
The Metro Tunnel Project will conduct essential testing on weekends and select weekdays, affecting the Sunbury, Cranbourne and Pakenham lines when patronage is lower during school holidays.
Metro Tunnel transport delays
- Monday, 14 April – Tuesday, 15 April: Buses replace trains between Westall and Parliament stations (Cranbourne/Pakenham) and between North Melbourne and Sunbury stations
- Thursday, 17 April: Buses replace trains on the same sections of both lines
- Saturday, 26 April – Sunday, 27 April: Buses replace trains between Caulfield and Westall stations (Cranbourne/Pakenham) and between North Melbourne and Sunbury stations
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The Gippsland line will also be affected with coaches replacing trains between East Pakenham and Southern Cross stations from Monday, 14 April to Tuesday, 15 April and on Thursday, 17 April.
Victoria’s Big Build describes the current phase as the most complex phase of the Metro Tunnel Project, which involves building two stations directly below Melbourne’s CBD while thoroughly testing the project’s new technology.
The April works form part of an extensive testing program that includes all the new technology in the trains, tunnels and stations. This thorough testing before the Metro Tunnel opens is crucial to ensure that the new infrastructure, systems and processes are safe and ready for passenger services.
The Metro Tunnel Project has been a major focus for Melbourne’s public transport development, with related works including bringing shops back to Campbell Arcade and installing new lifts at Flinders Street Station.
Hundreds of drivers have already been trained to drive through the Metro Tunnel, as reported in February, while Victoria’s Big Build works continue to progress across the autumn season.
Passengers who travel on the Sunbury, Cranbourne or Pakenham lines are advised to visit the PTV website to plan their journeys during the disruption periods.
For more information, head here.
