Client: Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC)

Location:  Parkville, Hunter Valley, NSW

Services Provided: Air Quality Assessment and dispersion modelling

Project details:

The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) are responsible for managing over 10,000 kilometres of the Nations Interstate Rail Network, including 650 kilometres of regional rail links in NSW and the 310 kilometre Hunter Valley Coal Rail network.

KMH conducted an air quality assessment for the proposed extension of the rail loop at Parkville in the Upper Hunter Valley. The assessment determined the effect of air emissions from the idling locomotives on residents in the Parkville area. Ausplume was used to conduct dispersion modelling for the scenarios that may eventuate depending in the location of the idling train and its direction of travel. The modelling results were compared to the NSW Department of Environment Climate Change and Water (DECCW) approved methods for modelling and assessment of air pollutants in NSW and recommendations were given in relation to the need and scale of the air quality mitigation measures.