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New train commitment a boost for Gippsland Melina Bath says an elected Liberal Nationals government will invest $633 million in new trains, including the Bairnsdale line. Look for significant improvements and modern trains. By Portal Admin - 20th March 2018 - Back to News Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath says an elected Liberal Nationals government will invest $633 million in new trains, including the Bairnsdale line, improving reliability and comfort and making Gippsland a more attractive destination for visitors and new residents.
Ms Bath said Gippsland commuters would be big beneficiaries of the first renewal of longhaul trains since the 1980s.
The Liberal Nationals announced the commitment on Monday, which will update the trains currently running on the Traralgon line to new generation, faster long-haul trains.
"Our commitment to buy new generation trains will mean fewer breakdowns, more seats and cleaner, modern trains that have the capacity to run at faster speeds," Ms Bath said.
"The 16 new, six-carriage sets will be capable of travelling up to 160kmh and will be delivered in the first term of government, gradually replacing the tired N and Z class trains.
"This is a tremendous announcement – the new trains will be quicker, getting passengers to Melbourne faster, with a greater carrying capacity to meet increasing demand.
"Currently the four carriage sets carry around 282 passengers, but these six carriage sets will seat more than 440.
"With air conditioning that will work and modern buffet facilities, travelling to and from Melbourne will be a much more enjoyable experience. The Nationals in Coalition have worked hard for this and it is very pleasing to be able to make this commitment.
"In conjunction with Gippsland rail infrastructure investments announced by Federal Nationals MP Darren Chester last year, and our commitment to replace the rolling stock, I look forward to significant improvements across the board when it comes to rail service reliability and passenger comfort."
Member for Eastern Victoria Region Melina Bath and Member for Gippsland East Tim Bull at Traralgon train station.
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: support@gippsland.com
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