THE Swan Hill line continues to be one of regional rail’s most reliable, says a V/Line spokesperson.
According to the most recent performance data, detailing service delivery over October, the local line exceeded both reliability and punctuality targets.
But, residents have been warned to expect delays as the mercury continues to rise across the region.
In October, a total of 121 of the 124 services scheduled on the Swan Hill line operated as trains, recording a reliability result of 97.6 per cent for the month, exceeding the reliability target of 96 per cent.
Swan Hill trains ran on schedule 94.7 per cent of the time in October, exceeding the 92 per cent punctuality target.
When results are combined as per official measures, Swan Hill and Echuca services recorded 93.5 per cent punctuality, with 98.5 per cent of services being delivered.
Across the regional train network, V/Line delivered 96.1 per cent of scheduled services, with the operator’s punctuality remaining consistent at 87 per cent.
“The Swan Hill line continues to be one of the best performing lines on the V/Line network but there is always room for improvement,” a V/Line spokesperson said.
“We’re working hard to ensure passengers reach their destination as quickly and comfortably as possible during the extreme heat that Victoria will face over the coming months.”
On days of extreme heat trains need to run at slower-than-normal speeds.
As a result, passengers are advised coaches may replace some services for all or part of the journey to minimise the disruption for passengers.
Heat restrictions come into force when the temperature reaches 36 degrees or above, due to expansion of the steel tracks.
On these hot days, trains that travel up to 160 kilometres an hour (km/h) slow down to 90km/h or less.
Commuters should keep an eye on weather forecasts, with V/Line advising to allow extra time for a journey when it is hot to account for delays.
Water fountains are located on board each train and staff are there to help if a passenger requires assistance.
On hot days commuters are urged to remember to bring a water bottle when travelling, wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing and where possible find a shady spot to wait for their service.
