![Track trespassers affect Bendigo trains Track trespassers affect Bendigo trains](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/39DXPJ6bfYBT8JmDyHFbVdB/c1be39c4-95e8-48b0-81ac-e4e418286c5a.jpg/r0_146_3280_2099_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
TWENTY services on the Bendigo line were delayed or cancelled in May due to trespassers on the tracks – a 400 per cent increase on the previous month.
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V/Line released its performance results for May, blaming the increase in trespassers for its failure to meet punctuality targets.
In one instance, a trespasser caused 12 services to be replaced by coaches on the Bendigo line.
V/Line chief executive officer James Pinder said it was important for people to act safely near train lines.
“When we get reports of trespassers on the tracks, our trains are forced to stop until Victoria Police gives us the all clear to proceed,” he said.
“People who unlawfully access the tracks not only put themselves in harm’s way, but they’re impacting thousands of customers who are on their way to and from work, medical appointments and other important destinations.”
Bendigo trains were on time 87.1 per cent of the time for May – short of the 92 per cent benchmark.
The line met the reliability target, with 97 per cent of services delivered.
Delays on the metropolitan Sunbury and Sunshine lines also contributed to the punctuality results, along with train faults.
Trains returned to the Echuca line after the completion of a $4.9 million upgrade on level crossings.
An extra 18 weekday services will be added to the Bendigo line from August 27. New timetables will be available in July.