About 90.2 per cent of services on the Bendigo line were on time in January, compared to only 86.1 per cent in December.

The last time punctuality was above 90 per cent was September 2017, when 91 per cent of services were recorded on time.

It comes after new permanent timetables were implemented on the Bendigo, Swan Hill, and Echuca lines from December 1.

"While it's encouraging to see performance improving on the Bendigo line, we're continuing to work to deliver more punctual and reliable services for passengers," a V/Line spokesperson said.

Read more: Bendigo V/Line performance data shows more delays, cancellations in December

"The timetable changes on the Bendigo line are designed to accurately reflect operating conditions so passengers can plan their journey with confidence."

But while more services were on time last month, there was still a large number of services that were cancelled.

About 5.4 per cent of scheduled services were cancelled in January, compared to 1.8 per cent at the same time last year.

There were also 94.6 per cent of services delivered in January - an improvement from the 90.6 per cent in December, but still down on the 98.2 per cent in January last year.

Temporary timetables were implemented on the Bendigo, Echuca, and Swan Hill lines in late January as V/Line upgraded more than 48,000 timber sleepers with concrete sleepers between Sunbury and Bendigo.

"The sleeper replacement works taking place on the Bendigo line are essential for improving the reliability and comfort of services," the V/Line spokesperson said.

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