Townsville, Mount Isa rail line remains closed after flooding
The rail line between Townsville and Mount Isa remains closed, with floodwaters preventing workers from making an assessment on the track’s structural integrity.
Townsville
Don't miss out on the headlines from Townsville. Followed categories will be added to My News.
The rail line between Townsville and Mount Isa remains closed, with floodwaters preventing workers from making an assessment on the track’s structural integrity.
The significant rainfall flooded areas such as Torrens Creek and Prairie, resulting in washouts and structure damage to bridges.
A detailed assessment of track damage cannot take place until floodwaters recede, Queensland Rail’s head of regional Jim Benstead said.
“Our crews have been progressively inspecting the line where safe to do so and we’re aware of repairs required at Prairie Creek and Emu Creek. The rail line between Mount Isa and Townsville remains closed until repairs have been completed,” he said.
RELATED: Startling images of North West Queensland after welcome heavy rain
Mr Benstead said there was still two metres of water flowing below the rail line at Emu Creek.
“This current weather event has acted differently to that of last year with the majority of rain falling in locations not historically identified to be an issue,” he said.
Train services have been able to resume on the Phosphate Hill Branch Line between Mount Isa and Phosphate Hill.
Queensland Rail is continuing to monitor the situation on the Mount Isa Line, with further rainfall possible over predicted for the coming days.
Originally published as Townsville, Mount Isa rail line remains closed after flooding