February train performance results and Siemens update
Metro has reached its delivery target for February with 98.8 per cent of 51,598 scheduled services for the month being run, an increase of 0.5 per cent compared to January's performance, and exceeding the delivery target of 98 per cent.
On-time performance for February fell below the 88 per cent minimum target, with 83.4 per cent of trains running on-time to four minutes and 59 seconds. Metro will pay customer compensation for falling below the punctuality target.
Infrastructure and train failures in February
Faulty trains and infrastructure failures caused more than 2,000 late trains, either directly, or indirectly, and Acting CEO, Raymond O'Flaherty, says that these equipment faults are further evidence that Metro must focus on getting the basics right.
A shortage of trains due to the impounded Siemens units was also a factor in February's poor performance.
"To fall below our on-time target is unacceptable to us, and unacceptable to our customers, but it further points to why we have to get the basics right, which starts with improving the reliability of the equipment - the tracks, trains, overheads, signals" said Mr O'Flaherty.
Siemens availability
"Train availability is absolutely crucial, and the Siemens overshoots that occurred during and after the Labour Day weekend have created extra pressure on the remaining fleet.
"We've been working closely with Monash University's Institute of Rail Technology who have helped us to collect data on the low track adhesion at the locations where there have been repeat overshoot incidents, such as at Malvern.
"Our priority is the safety of the network, and we're working closely with the independent safety regulator, PTSV, as well as engaging with rail adhesion experts at Monash University to try to identify a solution to this issue," said Acting CEO, Raymond O'Flaherty.
Rail maintenance and upgrades in February
"In this financial year we have $40 million dollars to spend on rail maintenance, and in the first three months of operation we've put that investment where it's needed most on the network.
During February Metro undertook the following maintenance and upgrades:
- Replaced 984 wooden sleepers with concrete sleepers to reduce track misalignments.
- Refurbished 14 track points at Werribee, Belgrave, Camberwell, Newport, South Kensington and Laverton, locations identified as threats to the train reliability
- Laid new tracks at Kooyong to improve train reliability.
- Straightened tracks at Laverton for better train movements.
- Installed a computerised signalling system at Laverton Station to reduce signal failures.
- Replaced the contact wires on overheads lines at Ferntree Gully, Kensington, Bayswater, Gardiner, Mont Albert and Jacana.
- Replaced 848 tonnes (560 cubic metres) of ballast.
- Replaced 194 Track circuits within the Underground and Laverton, to reduce train delays.
"The new contract with Metro gives an additional $500 million for rail maintenance works for a total spend of $1.8 billion during the next eight years," said Mr O'Flaherty.
About Metro's performance targets
The Government has applied a tougher measurement system under the new train contract for both delivery (number of trains ‘not cancelled') and punctuality (number of trains on-time). For example, a train that bypasses the City Loop or doesn't reach its final destination now contributes to the cancellation rate, whereas under the previous contract it was counted as a full service.
The definition of an ‘on-time' train is also different, reducing from five minutes and 59 seconds (previous threshold) to four minutes and 59 seconds.
Metro's Service Commitment Code specifies that not more than two per cent of trains can be cancelled and/or not more than 12 per cent of trains can run late (to four minutes 59 seconds) in a month before compensation is triggered.
Metro customers with a monthly, six-monthly or yearly Metcard, may apply to receive two free daily Metcards. Metro customers with an eligible myki pass may apply for compensation in the form of myki money to the equivalent of two daily myki.
Eligible customers can apply for compensation by filling out a claim form available at staffed stations or download an application form from metrotrains.com.au
