Light rail is fast approaching with testing of the system now happening from Mitchell Depot to Gungahlin Place Stop, Areas 1 and 2

Prior to light rail service commencing, a rigorous testing and commissioning process is being undertaken. This important phase of the light rail ensures the system is fully functional and safe to carry passengers.

Initially, most testing will be undertaken during night shifts to protect workers who are finalising construction works such as landscaping and building the light rail stations during the day. The testing will take place sequentially along the alignment in distinct sections over the coming months.

Below is an outline of the testing stages that will occur.

Stage 1: Track Preparation

Prior to the light rail vehicles travelling along the alignment the track needs to be cleaned and prepared for the first light rail vehicle. The cleaning will be conducted by a diesel powered vehicle (unimog). This process comprises the unimog travelling along your section of the alignment in several passes over the course of a week. This activity will have a relatively low impact in terms of noise and potential disturbance.

Stage 2: Energisation

This stage involves the electrification of the newly installed overhead lines and power stations located close to the track.

The power system for the light rail also undergoes its final checks.

The energisation phase will last for 1-3 days. Stay safe!The overhead wire is LIVE and carries 750 volts of power. Always keep a safe distance and never come into contact with the wire.

Stage 3: Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) testing

Once the electrification checks have been completed in Areas 1 and 2, (see map) the tracks will be ready for the Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs). Tests that will be performed on all LRVs over upcoming months are:

• low speed trials of the rail alignment, with LRVs travelling at speeds of 5km/h increasing to 20km/hr
• LRVs travelling at increasing speeds up to the final operating speed of 70km/h, with brake testing.

What to expect?

From Monday 21 May, for the remainder of 2018, Stage 1 Track Preparation will commence from 6:00pm to 6:00am Sunday through to Thursday with occasional Friday and Saturday nights expected.

The following minimal noise is anticipated:

• Warning and beeping devices from vehicles
• Wheel noise on the steel rail
• Noise from diesel powered unimog

*Further information will be provided in advance of Stage 2 and 3 of Energisation and LRV Testing.

For trades people and contractors, if you need to do work around the light rail corridor, contact Canberra Metro first at 1300 208 824.

Photo of Light Rail Vehicles thanks to Transport Canberra.