RAIL RESTRICTION

Waikato Times, Volume 194, Issue 22246, 15 January 1944, Page 4

RAIL RESTRICTION

SOUTH ISLAND ONLY PERMITS FOR 50 MILES (By Telegraph. —Press Association) WELLINGTON, Friday The Minister of Railways, the Hon. R. Semple, announced today that a further review had been made of the coal position as affecting the railway service, and although there had been a partial resumption of work at the coal mines it would be necessary to impose rail restrictions throughout the South Island as from Monday. The coal position so far as railways are concerned in the North Island is somewhat better than the South Island, and it is not proposed to introduce restrictions in the North Island meantime, but this may be necessary at a later date should the coal position deteriorate. The Minister appeals to people generally throughout the country to refrain from unnecessary travel at this juncture in order that normal rail services throughout the Dominion may be restored as soon as possible. The Railway Department stated that the restrictions in the South Island would mean that permits would be required for journeys of 50 miles or more, express services would be curtailed, and there would be some restriction on the carriage of certain commodities.

BOOKING OFFICES £USY * EFFECT OF RESTRICTIONS Railway booking offices experienced a busy period this morning dealing with travellers who had made reservations for South Island rail travel during the next few weeks. A rough estimate of the number of persons affected was given as 300. This number would include Hamilton people making for southern tourist resorts as well as South Island holiday-makers returning home after vacations in the north. A number of Hamilton bowlers visiting Dunedin for the Dominion bowling tournament will require permits before they can travel home and it is possible that there will be some delay in their return. South Island swimmers visiting Auckland for the national championships beginning next Wednesday will leave the South Island before the restrictions. are enforced, but permits will be required for their return home. ___