The Federal Government has welcomed additional public health and safety measures implemented by the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) on national rail infrastructure projects during COVID-19.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said Inland Rail’s construction would continue with other major construction projects, critical to securing the nation’s freight future.
“More than 1,700 people have worked on Inland Rail since construction began, including 667 locals on the Parkes to Narromine project. The economic injection from this project has been immense with $89 million spent with local businesses and 97 local businesses engaged as suppliers,” Mr. McCormack said.
He said that Australia needs essential construction services now more than ever to provide an economic stimulus, keep people in work and ensure the country is in a good position to build momentum following COVID-19.
“As Transport Minister, I quickly saw the need to prioritise the safe delivery of freight and transport infrastructure during this pandemic and communities can have confidence that all necessary precautions are being taken to protect workers and the communities in which they operate.”
Mr. McCormack said the additional measures put in place by the ARTC and its contractors mean that projects like Inland Rail can continue to be delivered.
“We all rely on the freight network to deliver the essential supplies such as food, medicine, medical equipment, which are critical now more than ever,” he said.
“I thank the freight and construction workers who are essential to maintaining our supply chains and laying the ground work for Australia’s freight future.”
The ARTC have strict processes in place such as social distancing, working in groups, hygiene practices and regular health the hygiene checks on all of its maintenance and project works.
Since the beginning of Inland Rail’s construction at Parkes in December 2017, more than 165,000 tonnes of ballast has been laid and one million tonnes worth of earthworks completed. A total of 70 kilometres of the 103-kilometre Parkes to Narromine section of Inland Rail is now complete with ancillary work underway.
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