Sydney to Perth rail corridor closed as ARTC begins repairs

The Sydney to Perth rail corridor closed via Broken Hill is expected to remain shut for another two to four weeks, according to the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) (ARTC). The disruption follows a period of severe weather that affected key interstate routes (ABC News).

Rail infrastructure damage and bridge repairs

ARTC says inspections have confirmed major rail infrastructure damage along the route. The most complex work centres on repairing structural damage to a rail bridge impacted by flash flooding. Meanwhile, it said specialist engineers are on site and options are being reviewed to complete the work in a timely but safe manner.

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Along other parts of the Broken Hill rail route, recovery works are continuing. Crews, contractors and specialised equipment have been mobilised to restore the Sydney to Perth rail corridor closure section to service, as reported by Rail Express. Also, ARTC said it remains in direct communication with customers as recovery progresses.

Freight re-routing while Sydney to Perth rail corridor closed

ARTC said it is working closely with freight operators to explore opportunities for extra services between Melbourne and Adelaide. Where capacity allows, services that would normally travel Sydney to Perth via Broken Hill could be re-routed through Melbourne and Adelaide.

The Melbourne to Perth rail corridor reopened this week. In addition, the Adelaide to Darwin rail corridor remains open, maintaining freight connectivity to and from the Territory. “This is not a routine weather event,” ARTC said. “ARTC remains in direct communication with customers and will provide further updates as recovery progresses.”

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