Train decision awaited

Press, 19 October 1982, Page 38

Train decision awaited

PA Wellington Recommendations of the Railways Corporation on the fate of the Silver Star passenger train are in the hands of the Minister of Transport, Mr Gair, but an early decision is unlikely. The luxury Japanese-built train was taken off its overnight run between Wellington and Auckland in June, 1979, because of financial losses. Its stainless-steel carriages now lie idle in Auckland and Wellington awaiting a decision on their future. Mr Gair said last week that a number of reports would have to be

considered before a decision was reached, and no early decision was expected. The Silver Star’s carriages were to have been converted to part-sleeper part-seater but they contain blue asbestos and trial stripping under Health Department supervision did not begin until last year. The Railways Corporation has since sent a detailed report to the Government with recommendations for future use of the train, once New Zealand’s rail “flagship.” It is believed that a full

conversion programme would • cost millions of dollars, and neither the Railways nor the Government will say what has been recommended. The Government is also reviewing -. what railways social services it will fund, and has designated $95 million this year for such services as passenger trains, suburban buses, and provincial branch lines. Of that, $171,000 will go this year to cover depreciation on the Silver Star, idle in Wellington and Auckland.