The first trains in the new intercity fleet are testing on the network using their own power
Testing of the new $2.4 billion intercity train fleet is ramping up, with the first of the delay-plagued trains now operating under their own power as COVID-19 cleaning is boosted across the transport network.
NSW
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The state’s new intercity train fleet is one step closer to operation, with the first two new trains now travelling under their own steam.
The latest stage in testing came as suburban trains received a hygiene boost, with the government ramping up cleaning protocols across Sydney’s public transport system to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Transport Minister Andrew Constance inspected the first trains delivered as part of the $2.4 billion intercity fleet.
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Mr Constance called the testing a “milestone’’, because the trains are travelling under their own power for the first time.
“Over the next few months you’ll see more of these trains on the network as we progressively test all train systems,” he said.
The delay-plagued trains are already a year late, and on Wednesday Mr Constance admitted the COVID-19 pandemic could see more delays in future.
He said the global virus shutdown could lead to a “realignment” in manufacturing, with an increased focus on local production.
State Labor said there’s still more work to do to make them fully operational, including widening the tracks past the Blue Mountains.
“These trains didn’t fit the tracks when they ordered them. They don’t fit the tracks now and I would love the minister to actually tell us how much it’s going to cost to fix that issue,” Opposition Leader Jodi McKay said.
Meanwhile, trains currently operating on the Sydney network are now being cleaned more regularly. Trains are being cleaned every 12 hours, and buses are being cleaned every day, Mr Constance said.
“We have a flying squad of cleaners across the network.’’
Originally published as The first trains in the new intercity fleet are testing on the network using their own power
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