By Jena Carr
Public Transport Users Association (PTUA) is calling for the removal of the North Shore level crossing following the death of a man last month.
The man died at the crossing after a train struck the truck he was driving on December 11, which led to the V/Line Geelong line being closed for 24 hours.
Regional spokesperson Paul Westcott said the PTUA called on the state and federal government to reduce the “disruption and danger” surrounding the crossing.
“The North Shore level crossing is not only a major safety hazard but also a regular source of disruption,” he said.
“We have many people who travel by train who expressed annoyance and disappointment when another incident occurs at the North Shore level crossing.
“Passengers consistently face delays and cancellations, and the recent fatality underscores the urgent need to deal with the problem.”
Mr Westcott said there had been level crossings removed or fixed in Melbourne that were “less problematic” than the one at North Shore.
“We think it’s time that North Shore was added to the list of level crossings that urgently need to be removed,” he said.
“The incident with the truck was unusual because the truck got stuck on the level crossing before the boom gates came down and the train arrived.
“Something needs to be done about it, how that’s done is up to the authorities once the decision has been made to eliminate the crossing.”
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the National Level Crossing Safety Strategy 2023-32 was being developed to support high-priority railway crossing upgrades.
“Level crossings are the highest public safety risk on the rail network and are a key focus of the Australian government,” she said.
“My thoughts are with all those affected by the recent tragedy at this level crossing in Geelong. Any death on our roads or railways is one too many.
“The Victorian government has a significant level crossing removal program, and we are committed to working with them and local councils to make our roads and railways safer for everyone.”
A Victorian Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson told the Independent that the railway crossing had safety infrastructures to warn drivers of the approaching level crossing.
