Turn-up-and-go train services are gearing up to launch for the first time in Victoria, as the state government’s train testing program continues towards the Metro Tunnel’s opening in 2025.
Premier Jacinta Allan and Transport Infrastructure Minister Danny Pearson visited State Library station to mark this critical phase of the project’s complex testing program that will create capacity for trains to run constantly from the Cranbourne/Pakenham lines through the Metro Tunnel to the Sunbury line.
Last month, crews successfully ran test trains two minutes apart between West Footscray and Hawksburn stations, using cutting edge high-capacity signalling technology that will revolutionise Melbourne’s train network.
Crews have clocked over 16,500 kilometres running through the tunnels since July last year – paving the way to begin trial operations with drivers and station staff by year’s end.
The Metro Tunnel will connect the busy Sunbury, Cranbourne and Pakenham lines through a new tunnel under the city, creating an end-to-end rail line from the north-west to the south-east – freeing up space in the City Loop and creating capacity to run more trains more often.
“We promised Victorians we’d get on with building the Metro Tunnel – and that’s exactly what we’re doing, a whole year ahead of schedule.”
“Test trains are now running on new signalling tech, and we’re getting ready to deliver turn-up-and-go transport services that will change the way our city moves forever,” Premier Jacinta Allan said.
