Railway project in Melbourne reshaping city transport network

A $6.5bn railway in Melbourne will open a year early, featuring five new stations and nearly 100km of track that modernizes transport and delivers faster journeys across Victoria. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Railway and tunnel construction transforming Melbourne

The project began in 2015 and has since grown into the largest overhaul of Melbourne’s transport system since the City Loop. A nine-kilometer Metro Tunnel now links the Sunbury line with the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines, creating a 97-kilometer route.

Don’t miss…CPKC derailment in Wisconsin causes service disruptions

Executives describe the development as a gamechanger. Metro Tunnel director Ben Ryan said the new railway would modernize the network, and he compared its impact to the Sydney Metro. He emphasized benefits for both commuters and the wider economy.

Authorities are rewriting the entire public transport timetable. Trains, trams, and buses will offer frequent connections, so passengers can travel without relying on fixed schedules. High-capacity trains will carry 1,400 passengers, running closer together at speeds up to 80 km/h.

Railway project costs, challenges, and future impact

The construction faced budget disputes. Costs rose from an initial A$11 billion ($7.3 billion) to nearly A$14 billion ($9.3 billion), after contractors sought an additional $3 billion. Despite criticism, work has advanced, and the opening is now scheduled for late 2025.

Cultural recognition was built into the design. Laser-cut animal footprints on the tracks honor the five Kulin nation clans of central Victoria. New stations—Anzac, Parkville, Arden, Town Hall, and State Liberty—will serve as modern hubs, with State Liberty located 37 meters below ground.

Acting transport infrastructure minister Sonya Kilkenny noted that critics once dismissed the project as a hoax. She said the government continued to deliver despite political opposition, ensuring Melbourne will enter a new transport era.

Source: www.express.co.uk

FAQ

What is the Melbourne railway project?

The Melbourne railway project is a $6.5bn investment featuring a Metro Tunnel, five new stations, and nearly 100km of track, set to open in 2025.

How will the railway improve Melbourne’s transport?

The railway will connect key lines, reduce congestion on the City Loop, and allow passengers to enjoy frequent, high-capacity services without checking timetables.

Can passengers travel faster on the new railway?

Yes. High-capacity trains with advanced signaling will run at speeds up to 80 km/h and carry 1,400 passengers, providing faster, more reliable journeys across the city.

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: