Rail commuters are set to benefit from upgrades to security CCTV at Wingham and Taree railway stations.
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The announcement of the installation of new multi-lens cameras at both Wingham and Taree stations to improve customer safety marks the start of Rail Safety Week, August 10-16, 2020.
"These new state-of-the-art camera installations will be able to monitor a much larger area around public transport stations than previous models to help ensure the safety of our customers and staff," Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead said.
"The CCTV will provide coverage of platforms, concourses, waiting rooms, coach bays, station entrances and exits, and car parks, with a total of 140 cameras being rolled out across regional NSW."
Mr Bromhead said Rail Safety Week is also a good opportunity to remind people not to take risks around trains.
"While most people do the right thing, it is disappointing that we still see dangerous acts such as driving through level crossings without looking and walking across tracks as trains approach.
"Rail Safety Week is a timely reminder that trespassing in the rail corridor is not only illegal, it's also extremely dangerous.
"In the last year there were more than 1500 reports of trespassing. People need to realise that passenger trains weigh more than 400 tonnes and have no chance of stopping quickly if the driver sees something or someone on the tracks.
"There is also no excuse for putting yours and other people's lives on the line at level crossings. It is important for drivers, riders and pedestrians to obey all signs, flashing lights, boom gates and markings," Mr Bromhead said.
Between July 2008 and June 2020 there were 77 collisions between trains and cars at level crossings in NSW, resulting in eight fatalities and 13 serious injuries.