6 Mar 2010: SEQ: Rail - light and heavy is the sustainable transport solution

[ozbob]

Media Release 6 March 2010

SEQ:  Rail - light and heavy is the sustainable transport solution

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 previously highlighted the report from the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC) which suggests greenhouse gas emissions from transport are likely to increase and blanket Brisbane with smog unless there is a shift to sustainable transport solutions (1). Now the Infrastructure Australia report 'The State of Australian Cities 2010' further highlights the need for public transport improvements (2). The fundamental problem in south-east Queensland is the poor train frequency which acts as a disincentive for people to use public transport as first choice.

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The ASBEC and the Infrastructure Australia report both highlight the looming massive congestion and environmental problems in Brisbane unless we move to more sustainable transport solutions.  They way forward is clear, more rail; both heavy and light."

"Rather than building more road based transport systems and encouraging yet even more smog, pollution, trauma, congestion and mayhem, we need to move forward with the heavy rail extensions and start to put in place light rail systems for a sustainable transport future (3,4)."

"How many reports of transport and environmental doom does there need to be before Governments finally let loose the shackles of the road transport lobby and get serious about a better future?"

"Promises of additional train services are still to be delivered(5). As evidenced on a media blog, the public is well aware of what is needed for future transport success (6).  Why is it the transport authorities are labouring with what are obvious solutions to the mess?"

"A transport tragedy is unfolding before our very eyes.  It is not too late to change and get the community on board!"

References:

1.  http://www.asbec.asn.au/

2.  http://www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/files/MCU_SOAC.pdf

3.  29 Sep 2009: SEQ: Call to accelerate Cross River Rail Project
    http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=2805.0

4. 10 Dec 2009: Now is the time for massive rail infrastructure investment ...
    http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=3115.0

5.  5 Mar 2010: SEQ:  Congestion and public transport
    http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=3533.0

6.  http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/congestion-will-cripple-brisbane-because-of-infrastructure-shortage/comments-e6freon6-1225837381020

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org