V/Line has introduced extreme heat timetables for train services on the Seymour line today and tomorrow.
The timetables allow for the slower speeds of trains on hot days, which V/Line says minimises the risk of danger because of the expansion of steel tracks in extreme heat.
A full extreme heat timetable is in place for the Seymour and Shepparton lines today, with a partial extreme heat timetable for the Bendigo, Echuca and Swan Hill lines.
Tomorrow, a full extreme heat timetable will be in place for Seymour, Shepparton, Ballarat, Ararat, Maryborough, Bendigo, Swan Hill and Echuca lines.
Passengers are encouraged to plan their journeys ahead of time and can download a copy of the extreme heat timetable for their line from vline.com.au or ask for a copy from their nearest staffed station.
Further information and updates are also available on the V/Line website.
Acting Minister for Public Transport Mel Horne said safety was the key priority for rail authorities on days of extreme heat.
“Safety continues to be our number one priority and we thank passengers for their understanding over the summer months and encourage them to take care when travelling during extreme weather,” she said.
“Extreme heat timetables can be easily accessed from the V/Line website and passengers are encouraged to plan ahead before travelling on really hot days.”
Extreme heat timetables will not be in place on the Gippsland, Geelong and Warrnambool lines due to coaches replacing trains for all or part of the journey while upgrade works take place.
