For those unaware, The Campaign for Better Transport have been running a petition to electrify Auckland’s rail network. They want to highlight the popular support for electrification ahead of the Budget being released in mid-May.
The petition has been running for several months and is growing rapidly. "We desperately need more trains in Auckland. Electric trains are faster, more reliable, quieter and less polluting. Reducing our reliance on imported fossil fuels is an added bonus," said spokesperson Cameron Pitches, noting that recent crude oil prices are heading towards all time highs of $US70 per barrel.
Responding to rumours that electrification may be funded through a fuel tax, Mr Pitches urged the Government to consider funding the project ‘up front’, as the order for trains needed to be placed immediately to ensure delivery within the next four years. "Roading projects have a range of funding sources – why aren’t the same options available for public transport?" asked Mr Pitches before pointing to the recent example in February of a $100 million Government infrastructure bond issue, half of which will be committed to accelerating roading projects.
The online petition can be found at www.electrifynow.org.nz and more information on Auckland's transport issue can be found at www.getmoving.co.nz.
