If there’s one thing Zinfra can expect working on the CBD and South East Light Rail Project, it’s the unexpected. In the process of delivering service relocations under the Utility Treatment Works Panel for client Acciona, Zinfra has unearthed old services and a few surprises that pre date accurate service location records.
Services markings give some indication of the challenges lying in wait beneath the surface.
Project Engineer Mo Rashid is enjoying the challenge this project brings. “Every day is dynamic. Due to the age of the services in the ground we just never know what we’re dealing with.”
The difficulty of investigating historic services means Zinfra must be dynamic in their approach, as every day reveals an unexpected challenge. Fortunately, Zinfra’s broad experience working with water, gas, power, and telco assets means they have the skill and capability to confidently deliver the works for the CBD and South East Light Rail Project.
The CBD and South East Light Rail is a new light rail network currently under construction in Sydney. The 12km route will feature 19 stops, extending from Circular Quay along George Street to Central Station, through Surry Hills to Moore Park, then to Kensington and Kingsford. Services will commence in 2019.
The client, Acciona, is part of the ALTRAC Light Rail consortium responsible for the design, construction, operation and maintenance of the light rail as part of a public private partnership.
Working in the heart of Sydney, on George Street and Devonshire Street, Zinfra’s scope of works includes excavation, trenching, installation of conduit, pipe and accessories, pit access, shaft/lid modifications, rehabilitation, potholing, protection of existing utility infrastructure, and backfilling.
More recently, Zinfra commenced the installation of 700 metres of high voltage cabling, including jointing and terminations, in open trenches in the Randwick precinct. This infrastructure will supply power to the Randwick Stabling Yard.
“Working on the CBD and South East Light Rail means we have one million stakeholders,” said Mr Rashid. “Not only are we working with the client and the asset owners – who include Ausgrid, Jemena, Telstra, Optus and Sydney Water – we are dealing with and accommodating the general public.
“As a result, safety is our number one consideration, no matter what the work, or what needs to be done. Our Zinfra crews work hard to build our culture of safety. Work groups, change programs, and our general approach mean we are building a strong leadership around and understanding of safety.”
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