Drone inspection of Rangitata River rail bridge take place

Inspections have taken place using drone technology after high flood waters washed away one of the 34 piers in the 610-metre long rail bridge over the Rangitata River.

As a result, all train movements over the bridge have been suspended.

KiwiRail Chief Infrastructure Officer André Lovatt said “We’re committed to keeping freight moving for our customers and we are working with impacted customers to manage alternative freight options for them.

Data from the drone investigation is now being analysed

“We will continue to run rail services from the north to Christchurch and Ashburton and from the south to Timaru. Connecting rail freight will be managed using road bridging operations” Lovatt said

 No passenger trains travel on the line south of Christchurch.

“A recovery plan has begun involving key engineering staff, contractors and our local structures (bridge) team. However, work cannot begin until the river recedes from its current high level.

 “In the meantime, Tomorrow morning, once water levels have receded, we are planning a visual inspection and a further, closer drone inspection. These detailed inspections will confirm any damage to the bridge spans, any damage to other piers, and the repairs needed” Lovatt said.

 “Safety is paramount and no repairs will be undertaken until it is safe to do so.

 We are not aware of any other network damage caused by the weather events in the South Island.”

The Rangitata Rail Bridge is an important part of the rail connection linking Invercargill, Dunedin and Christchurch. About eight freight trains travel across the bridge every weekday, and about five each weekend.