Track works across the Brisbane and Gold Coast rail network will continue until the end of April, Queensland Rail says.
Large queues formed at train stations on Tuesday, April 7, on the first work day back after the Easter long weekend.
Rail buses had replaced trains from Northgate to Roma Street station as queues of commuters quickly grew in the morning and afternoon.
The closures began on Friday, April 3, and will continue to April 11 on the northern, airport, Gold Coast and Beenleigh lines.
Work will continue to affect the Gold Coast and Beenleigh lines up to Sunday, April 26.
Click here for a brief video of the queue at Bowen Hill station on Tuesday, April 7
TRACK WORKS FOR PROJECTS
Queensland Rail says the major projects requiring track work include the Cross River Rail, Beerburrum-Nambour upgrade, Logan-Gold Coast Faster Rail, Loganlea Station relocation, Queensland Train Manufacturing Program, European Train Control System (ETCS) signalling system and track maintenance.
The acting Head of Translink, Dean Helm says that the works are part of a transformation of the SE Qld rail network.
“These track closures allow important work to be undertaken on projects critical to building a better rail network,” he says.
“If you are travelling during this period, I encourage you to plan ahead, consider your transport options and allow plenty of travel time.”
He says the decision to work across the different projects simultaneously during the school holidays was made to minimise travel disruption.
“While there is never a good time for track closures, conducting this work over the holiday period reduces the impact as less customers travel on the network at this time,” he says.
Cross River Rail Delivery Authority CEO Graeme Newton says crews are out in force to make the most of the absence on train services.
“Critical works will be carried out including the removal and installation of track and overhead line equipment around the Mayne Yard stabling facility, platform demolition at Moorooka station, and testing and commissioning of the new Hope Island station on the Gold Coast,” he says.
“These works are part of the Delivery Authority’s wider scope beyond new underground tunnels and stations and are just one part of a broader transformation to build a better rail network, alongside projects like The Wave on the Sunshine Coast and Logan and Gold Coast Faster Rail.”
Extra buses are running, drawn in from outside Brisbane, for express and all-stops services as well as the regular bus services.
NRL fans wanting to attend the Broncos-Cowboys game at Suncorp Stadium on April 10 are advised to plan ahead and give themselves extra travel time.
To plan your trip, use the Translink app, visit translink.com.au, or call 13 12 30.
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