(EnergyAsia, February 8 2012, Wednesday) — Australian mining giant BHP Billiton said it has informed the Queensland state government that it plans to align its railway system to accommodate more lines to deliver coal from its various mines to the Port of Abbot Point.

The project includes the construction of a dedicated rail line for BHP Billiton and its joint-venture partner, Japan’s Mitsubishi Corp, to link their Goonyella coal mine in Bowen Basin to a proposed BHP Billiton-owned export terminal at Abbot Point.

The two companies jointly own six metallurgical coal mines in Australia, with Goonyella being the largest.

The new infrastructure will enable Queensland state to export up to 60 million tonnes of metallurgical coal annually.

BHP Billiton is completing a study to identify a single proposed rail corridor in consultation with local landowners in the region.
Hubie van Dalsen, President of the company’s metallurgical coal unit, said:

“We have been working closely with local landowners, many of whom have lived on the same properties for decades. Some landowners have previously expressed concerns about the effect of multiple proposed rail corridors on landholdings. We have listened to their concerns and acted on the advice of the Queensland government in pursuing a common corridor which could be used by other proponents.

“Local knowledge is providing a critical perspective on potential issues like stock crossings, flooding and environmental issues in determining the proposed corridor.”

To date, BHP Billiton said it has negotiated access for study purposes with more than 85% of landowners, taking a long-term view in developing the relationships.