Thursday, July 18, 2024
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Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, and DT Infrastructure, a leading Australian provider of engineering and construction services, have secured a €1 billion (AUD 1.6 billion) contract from the Public Transport Authority of Western Australia (PTA). This contract involves the design, supply, construction, installation, testing, commissioning, and maintenance of high-capacity signalling technology for Perth’s suburban rail network.
This project, the world’s largest signalling project by route length, will be delivered by an Alliance consisting of the Public Transport Authority, Alstom, and DT Infrastructure. It will feature Alstom’s Urbalis CBTC technology, installed by DT Infrastructure’s skilled local workforce.
Perth will become the third Australian city to deploy Alstom’s proven Urbalis CBTC signalling solution, joining around 190 other global metro lines using this state-of-the-art technology. Upon completion, the project will increase Perth’s network capacity by 40%. The project includes a dedicated plan to minimize commuter disruption during installation, with advanced features such as enhanced cybersecurity, energy savings, and a new multipurpose communications system based on a private Long-Term Evolution (LTE) radio network.
“Western Australia is experiencing a rail renaissance with the recent first passenger service of the Alstom’s C-series train, built locally in Bellevue. Now comes the investment in the world’s best signalling technology. Clearly, the West Australian government require the best for the people of Perth. It is our privilege to deliver this, backed by our global expertise and local knowhow, for Western Australia, continuing our long history of deep partnership with the State,” said Pascal Dupond, Managing Director of Alstom Australia and New Zealand.
The High-Capacity Signalling project is part of the METRONET program and will create 750 local jobs in Western Australia. A range of global experts from Alstom and DT Infrastructure will be deployed to Perth for the project. There will also be a significant focus on upskilling Public Transport Authority staff in the new signalling technology and supporting the local supply chain, particularly Aboriginal-operated businesses and employment opportunities.
DT Infrastructure Chief Executive Officer, Darren Crichton said: “With several METRONET projects nearing completion, Perth’s upgraded rail network means residents and visitors are more connected than ever before. The High Capacity Signalling program will ensure that this capability is fully utilised, running more trains more often. We’re delighted to be working with Alstom to deliver this remarkable project, drawing on our extensive experience optimising and delivering improvements to passenger rail networks across Australia.”
