Major earth works to fix an embankment at Toolamba will begin from March 12 2011 and will close the Shepparton line to passenger rail and freight services until at least April 7 2011.
The work is to reconstruct a deteriorating embankment.
Although passenger safety has never been put at risk, heavy rain may increase the risk of damage to the rail line should the embankment continue to deteriorate.
The proposed works are to pre-empt any damage that could happen to the rail line in the future.
V/Line Northern Regional Manager James Edmiston said staff will work in two shifts, 24 hours-a-day to complete the job and minimise the length of the closure.
“This is a big job and needs to be completed before winter,” Mr Edmiston said.
“About 400 metres of track will need to be removed, and 8000 cubic metres (14,000 tonnes) of soil replaced to rebuild the embankment that is supporting the track.”
Buses will replace trains between Shepparton and Seymour for the duration of the works that are expected to last until Thursday 7 April (weather depending).
“We understand the inconvenience this will cause to not only passengers but also freight operators,” Mr Edmiston said.
“These are critical works that need to be done now to minimise the potential impact that could happen in the future should the track become damaged by an embankment slip.”
Freight trains will continue to operate during the work, via the Echuca / Toolamba line. Motorists are reminded to obey all level crossing warnings.
“For the first time in several years freight trains will be travelling on this section of track,” Mr Edmiston said.
“It is critical, for everybody’s safety, motorists slow down and obey all signs at level crossings.”
