The Metro Tunnel project is entering a new phase of testing, with the tunnel’s systems being put through its paces.
The latest phase will test how the station, train and data systems work together and communicate with each other, including platform screen doors, high-capacity signalling, passenger information displays, communications, and fire response systems.
The project will connect the busy Sunbury line with stops in Sunshine and Footscray via the new tunnel, creating an end-to-end rail line from the north-west to the south-east, freeing up space in the City Loop to run more trains across the city and suburbs.
Repeated testing and continuous software updates have been used to finetune the exact stopping position of the trains as they line up with the stations’ Victorian-first platform screen doors.
Testing inside the new tunnels and stations will stretch into mid-2024, before trial operations start, running practice timetabled services with drivers and station staff in a dress rehearsal to ensure services will work for passengers.
Premier Jacinta Allan said the project is entering a ‘critical’ phase of testing.
“This will transform Melbourne’s train network, delivering more trains to and from the suburbs and slashing travel times by up to 50 minutes every day,” she said.
