15 July 2009: Queensland: Diesel Multiple Units for Queensland Rail

[ozbob]

Media Release 15 July 2009

Queensland:  Diesel Multiple Units for Queensland Rail

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport commuters has called for the introduction of modern Diesel Multiple Units (DMUs) on the Queensland railway network.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"Diesel Multiple Units are modern rail motors.  Rail motors once played a critical transport role throughout Queensland.  Today throughout Australia and around the world, modern DMUs are increasingly being utilised to provide efficient, sustainable and safe long haul commuter rail services."

"In Victoria for example, VLine VLocity DMUs are providing a super long haul rail service. Patronage is booming as commuters take advantage of regular, safe and affordable rail transport (1). This is helping to reduce congestion costs, it is reducing environmental impacts and leads to less injury and death on the roads and commensurate savings to health."

"Many provincial centres in Queensland could support regular DMU services.  In south-east Queensland the introduction of DMUs on the north coast line and the western line particularly from Gatton and Helidon and eventually Toowoomba would provide citizens with safe rail transport.  The standard gauge rail corridor from Bromelton also provides the opportunity for a commuter rail service using DMUs."

"It is time Queensland snapped out of its time warp and matched the 'smart state' rhetoric with positive transport actions."

Reference:

1.  http://backontrack.org/mbs/index.php?topic=2482.0

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org