Rail lines in Tasmania are reopening after recent flood threats forced TasRail to suspend freight rail operations on the Western, Melba and Bell Bay lines of the state’s rail network.
TasRail chief executive officer Steven Dietrich said that the business’s priority had been the safety of its staff and on-going monitoring of operational rail infrastructure.
The Melba line service had now recommenced, and services between Devonport and Railton have restarted. Dietrich said that the Bell Bay line was expected to reopen this week post inspection of any flood damage at TasRail’s Newstead site.
“Our track inspectors and maintenance crews are out and about working to bring the rest of the network safely online,” he said.
“Please remember that we continue to be a 24/7 operational railway. Look up, look out, and stay rail safe.”
Dietrich also cautioned the public to stay well away from rail infrastructure throughout the current flood event.
He said that bridges and infrastructure, which are always off limits to the public for safety reasons, were being used as viewing areas to watch flood waters or as shortcuts to avoid road closures.
“This is unacceptable risk-taking behaviour at a time when the State’s emergency services personnel are focused on far more pressing issues,” he said.
“Rail bridges are never a safe place to be, but at times like this, there is an even greater risk.”
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