Flooding forced a temporary closure to some rail networks in the Hunter Valley region.
THE Australian Rail Track Corporation has resumed limited rail operations on the Hunter Valley Network between Newcastle and Maitland following a full closure due to localised flooding.
An ARTC spokesperson said coal services had resumed “in a limited capacity” after minor restoration works, which were carried out during a six hour work window on Wednesday morning after flood waters receded at Sandgate.
“These services will operate in a limited capacity while we continue to monitor the situation and assess conditions,” the spokesperson said.
“The network between Narrabri North and Moree remains closed due to continued flooding in the north west of the Hunter Valley Network.
“We would like to thank the community and our customers for their continued patience and cooperation as we worked to recover operations as quickly and safely possible.
“ARTC will provide further updates as we progress toward a full return to service.”
Flooding rains
Earlier, the ARTC reported that high rainfall, potential for more severe flooding beyond the current impacts to the network, strong winds, fallen trees and debris, power failures and fallen power lines and power poles were all concerns which led to operations being halted.
“Weather events such as these have the potential of damage to our network and increases risks to all those involved in the transport operations,” a spokesperson said.
The spokesperson said that ensuring the safety of the community, our customers and staff remains our highest priority.