Melbourne train network proposed comms upgrade

The Victorian Government will consider an upgrade to telecommunications on the Melbourne train system.

A market-led proposal is suggesting the implementation of 4G technology on the metropolitan train network, which would offer improved maintenance alerts, greater accuracy for arrival times and high-capacity signalling.

“We’re building a better transport system, with more reliable services, less delays and better information for passengers so they can plan their travel and get home sooner,” said Minister for Public Transport, Jacinta Allan.

The proposal by Nokia and Vodafone has moved to stage four of the Market Led Proposal assessment process.

If approved, rollout of the upgrade is expected to take about six months with no disruptions to commuters.

The government has already undertaken improvements to the train system, including the introduction of mobile coverage in the city loop and real-time passenger information across Melbourne’s trains, trams and buses.

The proposed upgrade would build on these improvements, as well as complementing new high-capacity metro trains and better signalling for Melbourne’s busiest train line between Dandenong and the city.

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