THE Victorian Government’s frustration in the delay in works starting on the North-East rail line upgrade has escalated.
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Public transport minister Jacinta Allan has claimed the condition of the track between Albury and Southern Cross is contributing to ongoing breakdowns and delays.
She has asked Deputy Prime Minister and federal infrastructure minister Michael McCormack for “urgent advice” on the $235 million upgrade.
The Australian Rail Track Corporation, which will oversee the upgrade, has confirmed a meeting scheduled for next week will provide a crucial update for frustrated commuters.
“The poor condition of the Melbourne-Albury standard gauge track is contributing to ongoing train faults, delays and cancellations to V/Line passenger services,” Ms Allan said.
“I have asked V/Line to review the causes of delays, cancellations and train faults on its Albury line services since October and provide urgent advice to government on what steps need to be taken to protect passengers and staff.
“The evidence is clear that V/Line passenger services will continue to be adversely affected if the line is not upgraded as a priority.”
“There are a range of factors that impact V/Line’s performance and we are working closely with V/Line to help address the areas impacting their services.”
A recent letter co-signed by Ms Allan to Mr McCormack and federal colleague Paul Fletcher seeking “greater co-operation” from Canberra on the North-East line improvements has been seen by The Border Mail.
Mr McCormack’s office has been contacted for comment and an ARTC spokesman acknowledged the frustration of parties involved.
“We are committed to a joint approach and working alongside Victorian transport agencies,” he said.
“We are eager to engage with the community on this as soon as we can, and recognise there is a strong desire in the community for further information.
“The project and community engagement are being discussed by a joint steering committee meeting chaired by Transport for Victoria next week.”
V/Line needs two of four dedicated train sets operating to fulfill its daily service requirements on the Albury line.
“V/Line acknowledges the minister’s request for a review on the causes of delays, cancellations and train faults on the North-East rail corridor and we will respond in due course,” V/Line chief executive James Pinder said.
