NSW coal sector remains in limbo, with key rail tracks and facilities flooded
Storms across coastal New South Wales have brought Hunter Valley coal movements to a standstill. Rail operations there won’t be available until at least Sunday, the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) has advised.
“High rainfall, severe flooding, strong winds, fallen trees and debris, power failures and fallen power lines and power poles have all contributed to operations being halted in the Hunter Valley coal network and trains travelling via the north coast of NSW,” it said after the worst of the storms hit on Tuesday.
Following up on Thursday, the company says difficult conditions continued to prevail.
“Hunter coal chain, freight and passenger services remain suspended,” it says.
“Sections of the track remain underwater and there will be significant clean up requirements to allow track repairs.”
The Maitland flood gates remain closed, holding back more water from the rail system. An ARTC spokesman says a resumption of business can only be scheduled when flood waters recede – that hasn’t happened yet.
Storm-related issues are also keeping intermodal freight off the separate north coast rail network between Sydney and Brisbane.
ARTC says it has identified 22 sites that will require significant repair before trains can return; more are likely to be found when the water recedes.
“Access to locations is difficult and while the weather continues, staff will continue to monitor the situation, begin initial planning and mobilise resources in readiness for when the repair works can safely begin.”