Rail network modernisation continues

The latest EMU electric train has commenced service on the Seaford line today as the State Government’s modernisation of the rail network continues.

Transport Minister Stephen Mullighan said the latest addition to the new fleet of modern, comfortable electric trains will add to the appeal of the Seaford line for southern suburbs commuters.

“This is the tenth three-car EMU set to enter service, with twelve more to be delivered over the coming year,” he said.

“This investment in new rolling stock is increasing the capacity on our system and encouraging more people to leave the car at home and take public transport.

“It will also allow the retirement of the 2000 class diesel trains in the next 12 months from the Gawler and Outer Harbor lines, while increasing our total number of railcars from 99 to 136.”

Mr Mullighan said the arrival of the latest EMU comes on the back of figures showing the popularity of the electric trains on the Seaford line, and also a general increase in the use of public transport by South Australians.

“More than one million passengers have travelled on our trains since the first electric train entered service just nine months ago, and it’s great to see commuters enjoying the services running on the extended Seaford line,” he said.

“We also recently released figures showing patronage on our network rose by 1.66 million journeys in the past year to more than 63.3 million, which is almost 11 per cent more journeys than in 2001/02.

“This represents an increase of more than 2.6 per cent across all modes in the last year, and underlines the importance of our record investment of more than $2.2 billion for the revitalisation of our public transport network.

“Commuters have been patient in recent years as we carried out this work, including the re- sleepering of rail lines, new signalling, upgraded stations and the electrification and extension of the Noarlunga line.

“They’ve been rewarded with an improved network, and I’m pleased that as services have returned to normal, patronage levels are increasing as people return to public transport.”

Source: News Release, Minister Stephan Mullighan, 24 November, 2014

http://www.premier.sa.gov.au/images/news_releases/14_11Nov/halliburton.pdf