Commuters and motorists are facing lengthy delays in January due to a number of works

Several major construction projects will cause lengthy delays for commuters and motorists during a peak time in Victoria. Find out which lines will be hit with replacement buses and where roadworks will take place.

A massive rail shutdown is set to hit commuters with lengthy delays expected across Melbourne.

Regional train lines will also be impacted during the month long public transport shutdown caused by works on the Metro Tunnel.

Excavation of the final section of the Metro Tunnel entrance at South Yarra will begin next month as crews begin shifting the existing train tracks to make room for the new track that will connect the existing lines to the tunnel.

Metro Tunnel project in North Melbourne. Picture: David Caird

The Metro Tunnel’s first tunnel boring machine under North Melbourne. Picture: Supplied

From Thursday buses will replace trains on sections of Frankston, Cranbourne, Pakenham and Gippsland lines.

There will also be disruptions to the Traralgon and Bairnsdale lines because of Metro Tunnel works and construction of the new Avon River Bridge.

The Sandringham line will also run a bus replacement service because of maintenance works.

The shutdown is expected to last until January 30.

The 96 tram route will also be impacted between January 2 to 19 as part of a long-awaited overhaul.

Passengers will be forced to take replacement buses in January while major works get underway on the Metro Tunnel at South Yarra. Picture: Tony Gough

Public Transport Victoria has warned commuters they could face delays of up to 60 minutes and has advised travellers to avoid peak hour travel where possible.

The shutdown is expected to cause chaos for visitors flocking to Melbourne for the Australian Open with buses brought in to ferry fans to matches during the popular event.

Congestion on West Gate Freeway. Picture Jay Town

Drivers will not escape the pain with major disruptions to the West Gate Freeway expected from January 13 until the end of February.

The shutdown will allow construction to intensify on the Metro Tunnel, the West Gate Tunnel, level crossing removals, the Western Road Upgrade, and other transport projects.

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“While most of Victoria are off enjoying a well-earned break, we’re getting on with a huge amount of work on some of the biggest transport projects that keep our city moving,” Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan said.

“We thank everyone for their patience over the next few weeks, and encourage them to plan their journey and allow extra time.”

Originally published as Commuters and motorists are facing lengthy delays in January due to a number of works