More delays expected on Geelong, Bendigo and Ballarat lines in July and August

Geelong commuters are bracing for more chaos on V/Line and metro services with multiple regional lines impacted by rail disruptions.

Travellers on Geelong, Bendigo and Ballarat Lines will be impacted by disruptions during July and August, including at Waurn Ponds station (pictured). Picture: Alan Barber

Geelong commuters are bracing for more chaos on V/Line and metro services over the next month with multiple regional lines impacted by rail disruptions.

Travel between Warrnambool, Geelong and Melbourne will be affected by works as part of the West Gate Tunnel Project, forcing trains off tracks in July and August.

The Geelong, Bendigo and Ballarat Lines will have major delays.

All Warrnambool line services will terminate at Geelong Station from July 8-23 and from July 29 - August 13.

Some customers will be impacted by disruptions at the Geelong Railway Station (pictured). Picture: Alan Barber

West Gate Tunnel Project executive project director, Peter Lellyett, said on weekdays, passengers would change to a Geelong line train to and from Southern Cross Station.

“On some weekends, coaches will replace trains between Southern Cross and Geelong,” he said.

“Additionally, coaches will replace trains on some nights between Southern Cross and Waurn Ponds in July and August.”

A temporary timetable will be available to assist passengers.

Commuters travelling from Wyndham Vale and Tarneit will also be impacted from July 10-21 and from July 31 - August 22, with trains to the city not stopping at these stations on weekday mornings during that period.

Coaches will replace trains on some nights between Southern Cross and Waurn Ponds in July and August. Picture: Alan Barber

Alternative services will be provided for passengers travelling to and from Wyndham Vale and Tarneit.

“We’re working hard to ensure commuters are informed and prepared for these disruptions, we thank commuters for their patience,” Mr Lellyett said.

It comes after reports some V/Line passengers have spent their entire journey trapped in a train toilet they’ve been forced into and unable to leave because of severe overcrowding.

A V/Line spokesman said capacity of two Warrnambool trains, which operate via the Geelong line, was reduced from five to four carriages at the weekend.

Originally published as More delays expected on Geelong, Bendigo and Ballarat lines in July and August