Southwest Metro systems integration testing enters final cycle

Southwest Metro systems integration testing is now entering a unified cycle. This marks the first time railway hardware and software function as a single unit.

Meanwhile, Rail Express reports that the current focus is on synchronizing train movements with signaling systems and station infrastructure. Also, technicians are verifying hardware synchronization at every stop. They are ensuring mechanical gap fillers and platform screen doors trigger in perfect unison.

Preparing for Sydenham to Bankstown passenger services

These trials are a necessary prerequisite for launching passenger services in the second half of 2026. Separately, over 216 individual assessments will take place in the months ahead. Progress has been consistent since higher-speed trials launched on 10 November 2025. To date, teams have completed 2500 of the 9000 total testing hours required. Still, Sydney Metro documentation indicates that these safety benchmarks are mandatory before the final conversion.

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Milestones in Southwest Metro systems integration testing

Testing teams have already reached the 100 km/h maximum line speed. So far, trains have covered 17,000 kilometers of the 30,000-kilometer target. In addition, this follows 3600 kilometers of loaded testing using 115,500 liters of water. Each milestone brings the project closer to final safety certification. This progress is noted in previous coverage from Railway Supply.

Commuter impact and Easter long weekend closures

Connecting the Bankstown extension to the existing M1 line requires several planned service interruptions. For example, a full line shutdown is scheduled for the upcoming Easter long weekend. Once the service goes live, trains will run every four minutes during peak periods. Additionally, the metro will carry 18,000 passengers per hour toward Central in the morning peak.

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