Melbourne commuters will face months of travel disruptions as two major tunnel projects near completion, including the long-anticipated $15 billion Metro Tunnel entering its final testing phase. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Melbourne commuters will face months of travel disruptions as two major tunnel projects near completion, including the long-anticipated $15 billion Metro Tunnel entering its final testing phase
The Parkville Station is one of five new Metro stations. Picture: NewsWire / Andrew Henshaw

On June 21, a full-scale rehearsal will begin for the Metro Tunnel, requiring passengers on the Sunbury, Cranbourne, and Pakenham lines to switch trains at either Caulfield or Footscray stations. Trains will then continue empty through the tunnel for trial runs.

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Transport Infrastructure Minister Gab Williams said the number of scheduled interruptions is vast and cannot be fully outlined in one briefing. She highlighted the scale of construction happening across the city during the winter period.

Melbourne Train Services to Shift During Metro Tunnel Tests

The June trial coincides with two local AFL matches, increasing pressure on transport networks. Extra staff will be stationed at key transfer points to assist passengers and reduce confusion during the system test.

Standard announcements will be enhanced, and commuters are encouraged to plan ahead. The state government emphasized this phase as essential preparation for launching the Metro Tunnel later this year.

Melbourne Roads and Rail to See More Closures in 2025

West Gate Tunnel works will lead to significant road closures on outbound arterial routes in late 2025. Sections of the Eastern Freeway will shut on weekends in August.

Meanwhile, in July, buses will replace train services on the Hurstbridge line. Authorities recommend monitoring updates and using alternate routes when possible.

While disruptions will challenge daily routines, officials maintain they are critical for delivering long-term improvements to Melbourne’s transport system. The government promises smoother commutes once the upgrades are completed.

Source: www.ntnews.com.au

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