Experts from Germany investigate mysterious tram extension fault amid fears line’s completion is weeks away
A GERMAN transport expert has arrived in Adelaide on a mission to fix a mystery fault that has further delayed the opening of the trouble-plagued North Tce tram extension.
- July 23: New fault means extension delayed yet again
- July 11: North Terrace tram extension to open on July 29
- July 6: North Terrace tram extension approaches completion date
- May 3: Trams will get rolling along North Tce within weeks
- June 20: Handrails being replaced amid electrocution concerns
A GERMAN transport expert has begun work on solving the mystery fault that has pushed the city’s plagued tram extension even further off track.
Transport Minister Stephan Knoll was set to open the 900m extension today, after claiming the start date was “set in stone” following a string of problems with the project.
But a mysterious electrical fault, detected 11 days ago, has caused a signalling system between the tram and the track to fail.
The expert, who works for transport company Hanning and Kahl that provided the signalling system, landed in Adelaide on Thursday.
It is understood the problem that has derailed the project is linked to part of the tram’s power supply in an underground channel that drives signals above ground.
Options could range from a simple fix to excavating part of the track.
The Sunday Mail has been told the Transport Department does not have a start date to launch the service, which has been subject to ongoing controversy, delays and budget blowouts.
There is also speculation the signalling problem – which occurs erratically – was detected and all but solved before the expert arrived.
The tram extension was originally scheduled to open late last year after six months’ work.
It has cost taxpayers at least $80 million, which includes an extra $10 million from the previous Labor government in July last year to speed up the work.
The project also involves a 330m extension along King William Rd to the Festival Centre.
Other problems have included fears commuters could be electrocuted through hand rails at tram stops, and the lack of a right-hand tram turn from King William St to North Tce.
Rail, Tram and Bus Union Union state secretary Darren Phillips said on Saturday the line was too dangerous to use in its current condition.
“Rather than put everyone in danger, get it fixed and then train the tram drivers up and get the services happening,” he said.
Mr Knoll’s spokesman said the cost of fixing the current fault would be carried by the private contractor.
He said the German transport expert was “assisting the project team to identify and rectify the tram signalling issues” so the new line could open as soon as possible.