RAIL freight routes affecting Sydney–Perth, Melbourne–Perth, and Adelaide–Darwin have been suspended following a partial derailment north of Port Pirie on Tuesday afternoon.
Rail operator ARTC confirmed 11 wagons had been partially derailed but there were no injuries to the train crew.
Recovery works are underway, with cranes and heavy machinery on site but extreme heat is slowing recovery efforts.
The cause of the derailment is under investigation, and ARTC will continue to work closely with the train operator and the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR).
ONRSR released the site on Wednesday morning, enabling recovery works to proceed.
Temperatures in the mid-40s in coming days are expected to hamper recovery work, but the track is expected to be back in operation by Saturday.
ARTC is mobilising rail, sleepers and additional machinery in preparation for rebuilding the track once the derailed rolling stock has been removed.
ARTC said safety is a top priority as restoration work continues.
Allen Newton
