Environment and Sustainability, Freight Rail, Safety, Standards & Regulation

Bad weather shuts TasRail

Tasmanian rail operator TasRail has temporarily suspended all operations across its network in response to heavy rain and flood conditions.

TasRail boss Damien White said the shutdown was a precautionary measure.

While the closure was regrettable, he said, the safe operation of rail services is paramount.

“TasRAil has deployed all available staff to inspect and assess the track and critical infrastructure including rail bridges and facilities,” he said on Monday.

“While heavy rain is continuing to fall across the state, the rail network appears to be withstanding the flood conditions reasonably well,” he explained.

“But there are a number of areas, particularly on the North West Coast, where water levels are a concern.”

White acknowledged the efforts of his staff, who he said were out in difficult conditions to monitor the safety of the network.

TasRail said it was in contact with customers to keep them in the loop as to when the network would re-open.