On Wednesday, December 17, V/Line has announced that partial extreme heat timetables will be put in place for the Seymour line, as well as for the Bendigo, Echuca, Shepparton and Swan Hill lines.
The following day, extreme heat timetables will be in place for all lines on the V/Line network, other than the Albury line.
This will mean that journey times will be extended, as the speed of trains is reduced.
V/Line chief executive Will Tieppo said on days forecasted to be 36 degrees or above, speed restrictions were put in place to ensure passengers and staff were safe while travelling.
“Safety is our top priority and on really hot days, steel can expand in the heat, which is why trains may run at slower speeds, or are replaced by coaches when necessary,” Mr Tieppo said.
“Passengers can plan their trip with confidence by downloading extreme heat timetables from the V/Line website.”
V/Line said speed restrictions may also be implemented on other lines on Wednesday if temperatures exceed 36 degrees, which may result in further delays or service changes.
Passengers are advised to allow extra travel time and to plan ahead and check the V/Line website at www.vline.com.au before travelling to check any changes to their services.