V/Line slightly more punctual

V/LINE has failed to meet its monthly punctuality target on the Geelong line 10 times in the past year, but according to data the month of June showed signs of service improvement.

Public Transport Victoria data revealed more than 300 of the 2669 trains scheduled to run on the Geelong line were more than six minutes late in June this year, while 127 trains were cancelled — the second-highest figure for the year, sitting behind the 151 of March.

But, overall, 91 per cent of services were delivered on time in June — a slight increase from 89 per cent in May.

Department of Transport acting deputy secretary Alan Fedda said V/Line had placed an increased focus on measures to help on-time departures during June.

“Additional staff at Footscray station played a more active role in platform management, helping passengers board and exit trains faster by providing additional announcements,” Mr Fedda said.

“V/Line is also trialling measures to help passengers board and exit trains more efficiently.”

V/Line Geelong has only achieved its monthly punctuality target of 92 per cent of ontime services in March this year and December last year, from June 2018-19.

Geelong commuters have also been warned to brace for a construction blitz at Wyndham Vale station, which will trigger coach replacements on Geelong line trains departing after 9pm tonight and tomorrow.

Trains travelling to Waurn Ponds departing after 8.30pm will also be replaced by coaches between Geelong and Waurn Ponds.

The overnight maintenance works, which include signal installations, underground service and drainage installation, aim to reduce the risks of faults on the line.

Public Transport Minister Melissa Horne, who is also Acting Transport Infrastructure Minister, said the works would help boost reliability for Geelong line passengers.

“I want to thank passengers for their patience as we get on with undertaking essential maintenance works that will help get you where you need to go,” Ms Horne said.