The Eastern Goldfields Railway (EGR) is the vital link that connects Western Australia to the rest of the country. Major EGR embankment works were recently completed to allow the line to operate more safely and efficiently – a critical investment, given the increased freight volumes moving on the line this year.
The EGR carries around 132,000 passengers travelling on over 1,100 services each year, and moves around 80% of all general land based freight coming in from the east coast.
The EGR embankment works were focused on reinstating embankment stability and removing the need for Temporary Speed Restrictions (TSRs) that were put in place following major weather events that impacted the line. An embankment is a construction that allows railway lines to maintain an acceptable level and gradient over low lying ground.
Temporary embankment repairs were initially undertaken in early 2017 but after some long term monitoring of the infrastructure, it became evident that a more permanent engineering solution was required.
The engineering solution to reinstate these embankments was developed by Arc’s Civil and Structures Engineering team using geotechnical consultants, Advisian. The challenge was to develop a solution that would minimise disruption to traffic along impacted sections of the EGR during construction.
Significant infield and laboratory testing and analysis was carried out to determine the best solution.
A nearby quarry site was selected to provide the large quantity of rocks required to complete the works, which involved assessment of the quarry’s earth material and a field compaction trial.
The tracks were continuously monitored during construction to ensure the track alignment was maintained and trains could continue to move through safely.
Head of Major Projects Sudip Saha said the embankment works would deliver benefits for many years to come.
“The completion of the EGR embankment works will continue to deliver benefits to Arc’s customers, employees and communities, and ensure the ongoing safe and efficient operation of this critical asset,” Sudip said.
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