First train runs on new city railway

13/8/07

The first trial of a train running in the New MetroRail tunnel was completed successfully over the weekend.

Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said that ‘proving trials’ were tested for the recently installed overhead line.

“These important trials involved a train travelling the majority of the 2.7km of new double-track railway in the city, between Roe Street and the foreshore near the Narrows Bridge, including through the twin-bored tunnels,” Ms MacTiernan said.

“The trials were conducted at varying speeds, up to 45kmh, on both tracks over two days.

“Multiple runs were carried out to check the pantograph* travel, as well as the clearances for platforms and other fixed structures.

“The track will be inspected this week to ensure the rail infrastructure has remained in place.

“The successful completion of the test train trials marks a significant milestone in the testing and commissioning of the City Project (Package F) work.

“This brings us one step closer towards completion of the new railway, which is expected before the end of the year.”

The contractor, Leighton Kumagai Joint Venture, is finishing the fit-out of the two new city stations and other remaining parts of its Package F contract.

*The device on top of a train that collects the electric current from the overhead lines and powers the train.