A new engineering report has reignited community concerns over Melbourne’s $10.2 billion West Gate Tunnel project, warning that its towering ventilation stacks could blast toxic truck fumes into nearby suburbs like “bathroom exhaust fans.”
Commissioned by the Maribyrnong Truck Action Group, the independent report claims the 50-metre ventilation shafts in Yarraville and Altona North fall short of global best-practice standards, potentially exposing thousands of residents to unsafe levels of air pollution once the tunnel opens in December.
It is reported that the local residents are demanding the installation of filtration systems before the toll road becomes operational, arguing that sleek design and cost-cutting have come at the expense of public health.
It is further reported that the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is now reviewing Transurban’s licence to operate the tunnel, amid threats of legal action from community groups if filters are not added.
But the Victorian Government has dismissed the concerns, accusing some media outlet of spreading “disinformation.” In a strongly worded statement, Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne said the report cited by the newspaper had not been shared with the Government for review.
“Independent assessments have confirmed that the West Gate Tunnel will actually improve air quality in Melbourne’s inner west,” Minister Horne said.
“Advice from the Department of Health found potential health impacts from tunnel emissions to be below health-based guidelines and a low risk to human health.”
She also noted that no road tunnels in Australia use filtration systems, saying the West Gate Tunnel’s design will safely disperse exhaust high above surrounding suburbs.
“Powerful engines will push air through the stacks, ensuring pollutants are diluted and dispersed safely.”
According to the Minister, the project underwent a transparent environmental approval process and includes extensive ongoing monitoring. Once operational, air quality data from the tunnel will be publicly reported each month.
The Government also highlighted a series of initiatives to improve air quality across Melbourne’s west — including $8 million to help truck operators transition to low-emission vehicles, $5 million for sealing local roads to reduce dust, and a trial of 50 electric and two hydrogen buses. Minister Horne added:
“When it opens later this year, the West Gate Tunnel will take 9,000 trucks a day off local roads and introduce 24-hour no-truck zones on key routes like Francis Street and Buckley Street, vastly improving liveability across Melbourne’s west.”
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