Inland Rail earthworks between Narrabri and Bellata are proceeding apace, with a flurry of equipment movement along the alignment.
The activity of excavators, rollers and other earthmoving equipment is particularly noticeable for Newell Highway motorists who are able to see the construction progress.
In an update of its Narrabri to North Star alignment, Inland Rail said the final stage of the Narrabri to North Star phase one section kicked off in April with the temporary closure and possession of the operating rail line between Narrabri and South Moree, for major construction until October 31, 2022.
Concrete structures will be installed to support the new Ten Mile and Bobbiwaa Creek bridges in the coming months.
“Upgrade works have also progressed at multiple level crossings and areas that require concrete culverts at creek crossings,” Inland Rail said in an update at the end of June.
“However, most of the work along the 55km of rail corridor has involved bulk earthworks.
“Earthworks involve moving, stabilising and transforming thousands of cubic metres of earth to reconstruct the track foundation.”
Before earthworks can start, Inland Rail needs to clear vegetation and strip the topsoil.
The process then involves excavating and removing the existing embankment, including any existing ballast and general fill.
Once the track foundation is built, ballast is place on top and then graded and compacted. Concrete sleepers are then placed, followed by laying rail tracks as part of a seven-step construction process.
To order photos from this page click here
