Protecting copper wire from theft will form part of the plan to spend $235 million fixing the Albury to Melbourne rail line.
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The scope of works for the troubled track has not been publicly released yet, but Australian Rail Track Corporation chief executive John Fullerton revealed some details during Senate Estimates in Canberra on Monday.
Asked by Senator Malarndirri McCarthy how many train delays were caused by copper wire theft, Mr Fullerton replied, “a lot”.
“The $235 million does include some replacement of copper wire,” he said.
“It’s an ongoing issue we’ve got, copper wire theft.
“We’re using some of those funds to eliminate that as a potential risk, which will improve the reliability of the passenger service.”
Questions about the exact impact on train delays were taken on notice.
“Copper is well sought after … particular in remote locations, they cut it down and sell it,” Mr Fullerton said.
“It’s been quite regular. When that happens is it stops all trains, we have to go to a modified system … we use telecommunications instead of copper wire.”
The scope of works will also include money allocated to address the problem of unreliable signalling coming out of Melbourne.
“That was always aimed at improving the resilience, reliability and ride quality of passenger trains,” he said.
“We expect (rail works) will be over about a three-year period, but of course the earlier we can do it, the better.
“We’re currently working with the Victorian government on the final scope and have discussions with the federal government.
“We’re about to go into community consultation this week to explain what we plan to do to get their feedback.”
ARTC and Transport for Victoria will present at the Hume Corridor Passenger group meeting on Thursday.
Mr Fullerton said 15 speed restrictions between Albury and Melbourne, adding an extra five minutes travel time, were planned to be removed over the next month after track works.
Senator McCarthy also asked for specific figures on money spent on maintenance on the line in 2017-18.
Mr Fullerton could only say they were “significant” and took the question on notice.