By rosebell
On October 18, 2024, a significant milestone was reached for the Cross River Rail project as a test train entered one of the project’s twin tunnels and arrived at a new underground station platform.
The train travelled nearly 4 kilometres from the Mayne Yard stabling facility to the new Roma Street underground station. This journey served as a “proof of concept,” marking a crucial step toward the project’s final testing and commissioning phase.
During the test, the train entered the tunnel at a low speed of approximately 5 km per hour, using minimal power to conduct several essential tests. These included verifying the overhead power systems and ensuring the train’s safe movement through the tunnel.
With the proof of concept successfully completed, teams will now focus on more comprehensive testing across the remaining sections of the tunnel and station areas. Initially, individual systems will be validated, gradually progressing to the simultaneous testing of multiple systems. Full-capacity timetable testing will follow before the railway opens to the public.
This initial test was made possible after energizing the tunnel section north of Roma Street underground station, using around 4.5 kilometres of overhead conductor bars to supply 25 kilovolts of power to the train.
Overall, thousands of tests will be carried out on the Cross River Rail tunnels and stations, covering everything from fire protection, communications, and lighting to power systems, CCTV, drainage, ventilation, and security measures.
