Melbourne Route 48 Trams Split for Freeway Work

Route 48 trams split into two sections May 9-10 due to Eastern Freeway closure impacts

Route 48 Trams Split Into Sections May 9-10

Melbourne's Route 48 tram service will operate in two separate sections on May 9-10, 2026, requiring riders to walk between stops to complete their journeys. Yarra Trams announced the changes will affect service from 10am to 9pm both days due to traffic impacts from the Eastern Freeway closure. The route normally runs continuously between North Balwyn and Victoria Harbour Docklands.

Freeway Closure Forces Service Split

The Eastern Freeway closure will create traffic conditions that prevent Route 48 trams from operating their full route during the weekend disruption, according to Yarra Trams. Transit agencies typically split tram routes into sections when road closures or major events create traffic congestion that would delay service. The split-service model allows trams to maintain more reliable schedules on each section rather than running late across the entire route. Officials didn't specify which portion of the Eastern Freeway will be closed or what work is planned.

Two Transfer Points Required

Passengers heading to North Balwyn will ride trams from Victoria Harbour Docklands to Stop 26 at Barkers Road and Church Street, then walk to Stop 29 at High Street and Barkers Road to board a second tram. Riders traveling toward Victoria Harbour Docklands will take trams from North Balwyn to Stop 29 at Barkers Road and High Street, then transfer to another tram for the remainder of the journey. The walking distance between Stop 26 and Stop 29 wasn't specified by Yarra Trams. Stop 29 on High Street also serves Route 109 trams.

Weekend-Only Disruption

The service changes will affect only Saturday, May 9 and Sunday, May 10, 2026, during the 11-hour window from 10am to 9pm each day. Route 48 will resume normal operations after 9pm Sunday, officials said. Yarra Trams didn't indicate whether the Eastern Freeway closure will extend beyond that weekend or if additional Route 48 service changes might be needed.

Riders Should Plan Extra Time

Passengers should allow additional travel time for the required walk between stops and the need to board two separate trams to complete their journeys. Yarra Trams advised riders to plan ahead for the weekend disruption. Moovit provides real-time Route 48 departure times and service alerts to help riders navigate the split-service operation during the Eastern Freeway closure.