MEMBER for Light Tony Piccolo has labelled the electrification of the Gawler line a “train wreck” following the announcement of a further seven-month closure.

Transport Minister Corey Wingard last Thursday announced that the Gawler
line would be closed in full until November, rather than the staged approach that was originally announced.

Mr Piccolo has been vocal in his criticism over delays of the project, its impact on rail commuters and cost of the substitute-bus service.

Following last Thursday’s announcement, Mr Piccolo again called on the State Government to make the service free, echoing the sentiments of Labor Party leader Peter Malinauskas.

Mr Piccolo said the near 10-month closure would cause significant inconvenience and costs for rail users.

“While some closures and inconvenience could reasonably
be expected during the electrification project, commuters shouldn’t have
to pay the price for the Marshall Liberal Government’s mismanagement of
this important project,” he said.

“I receive a lot of complaints, and commuters are now calling this further delay a ‘train wreck’.

“The very least the government can do is to provide some relief in the form of free and better substitute bus services.”