The Allan government’s recent announcement of an $837 million cost overrun on Victoria’s Metro Tunnel project, now totaling $13.48 billion, has raised eyebrows across Melbourne. This transformative project aims to connect the city’s east and west with new underground train stations and an end-to-end rail line. Transport Infrastructure Minister Danny Pearson attributed the increase to global events, rising building costs, and unforeseen circumstances, emphasizing the challenges in today’s construction industry. Despite initial cost estimates of $10.9 billion in 2016, the project has faced multiple budget revisions since then. Up to $745 million of the additional funds will support the Cross Yarra Partnership, the project’s construction partner, to ensure timely completion. Once finished, passengers can seamlessly travel from Sunbury to Cranbourne or Pakenham without changing trains, benefitting from improved connectivity in Melbourne. Pearson expressed commitment to delivering the project and highlighted the economic benefits of such investments for Victoria. With only two stations left to complete, the Metro Tunnel project is on track for a 2025 finish, surpassing expectations.
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