This article is 20 years old. Images might not display.
The AusLink funded package was announced this week by deputy prime minister John Anderson in Newcastle, and will be delivered to the rail carrier over the next four years.
Of the $62.3 million pledged, $42 million will be spent building an interoperable communications system for the interstate rail network with the remaining $20.3 million used to develop an Advanced Train Management System (ATMS) based on the Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) technology found in some types of mobile phones.
Anderson claimed the new communications package, which replaces nine separate systems currently in place, would enhance the rail line’s capacity to carry more coal trains, but was unable to provide any hard figures.
The upgrade is particularly critical along some stretches of track, were signalling equipment dates back to the 1920s.
“The Advanced Train Management System will include new computerised in-cab signalling to replace the current trackside system, satellite-based location technology with an accuracy of within half a metre and a computerised warning system to alert drivers to impending dangers,” Anderson said.
“The system will enable ARTC to operate more trains on the same track with a higher level of safety.
“It will boost the capacity of the rail network in the Hunter Valley, which is already operating more efficiently as a result of the ARTC's lease.”
The ARTC is currently spending $152 million over five years upgrading the Hunter Valley rail network to increase its capacity from 85 million to 100 million tonnes per year.
It anticipates coal haulage per annum could rise to 115 million tonnes by 2006 and 125 million tonnes by 2007.
