Rail Tunnel Reopens, Ending Eight Months of Coal Trucking
The long-awaited reopening of the Tawhai Tunnel near Reefton marks the end of eight months of coal trucking for Bathurst Resources. After a digger operator working on track renewal noticed the tunnel lining crumbling in June, the tunnel had to be closed for repairs. This closure forced Bathurst to resort to trucking Stockton coal to Ikamatua, near Blackball, for transfer to rail, causing annoyance to residents and road damage along the way.
### Relief for Bathurst Resources
Bathurst Resources’ export operations manager, Ian Harvey, expressed relief as railing operations are set to resume on Sunday. This means the end of trucking is in sight, much to the delight of the communities in Westport, Reefton, and Granity who have been affected by the increased truck traffic. The shift back to rail transport will see an increase in the number of coal trains per week from 19 to 21, allowing for the movement of stockpiled coal at Stockton.
### Increased Capacity and Improved Efficiency
With each train carrying almost 1500 tonnes, the additional capacity will see the weekly total tonnage increase from about 28,000 tonnes to 31,000 tonnes. This boost in capacity will significantly improve efficiency compared to the peak weekly tonnage of 19,000 tonnes during the trucking period. Although Stockton’s exports will fall short by about 100,000 tonnes for the financial year, the ability to retain all staff and meet export orders during the tunnel closure period is a silver lining for Bathurst Resources.
### Complex Repair Project and Enhanced Safety
KiwiRail’s South Island regional infrastructure manager, Gary Ikin, highlighted the extensive repair works undertaken in the Tawhai Tunnel. A team of 70 workers dedicated approximately 50,000 hours to strengthening the tunnel lining, securing it with rock bolts, and improving drainage to prevent future disruptions. The completion of this massive undertaking not only ensures the tunnel’s structural integrity but also enhances safety for future rail operations.
### Community Caution and Appreciation
As rail services resume, Ikin urged the Buller community to exercise caution at level crossings, emphasizing the importance of following safety signage and looking in both directions before crossing tracks. KiwiRail expressed gratitude to its customers, the Buller District Council, and the local community for their patience and support throughout the tunnel repair period. Despite the inconvenience caused by the trucking operations, the community’s understanding and cooperation have been invaluable.
In conclusion, the reopening of the Tawhai Tunnel signifies a return to normalcy for rail operations in the region. The completion of this complex repair project not only restores essential transportation links but also underlines the resilience and dedication of all those involved in the process. As trains once again traverse the tunnel, a sense of relief and optimism permeates the communities affected by the prolonged disruption.