Major Eastern Freeway Closure Starts Tonight; Significant Delays Expected in Melbourne’s East

Commuter Alert: Eastern Freeway Shutdown and North-East Disruptions

Melbourne commuters are advised to prepare for significant travel disruptions starting this evening, Friday, 27 March 2026. As part of the North East Link Project, a major section of the Eastern Freeway will be closed in both directions to facilitate the ‘Mega Lift’—a massive engineering feat involving the installation of 12 steel beams weighing over 1,000 tonnes to form new elevated ramps.

Eastern Freeway Total Closure

Beginning at 10:00 PM tonight, the Eastern Freeway will be completely closed in both directions between Bulleen Road and Doncaster Road. This closure is scheduled to remain in place until 5:00 AM on Monday, 30 March. Transport authorities are warning drivers to expect delays of up to 60 minutes during peak travel times. The following entry ramps will also be closed to manage traffic flow:

• Citybound entry ramps at Springvale Road, Blackburn Road, Middleborough Road, and Elgar Road.
• The outbound entry ramp at Chandler Highway.
• The Springvale Road citybound entry ramp will close slightly earlier, at 9:00 PM tonight.

To assist with the detour, motorists are permitted to use the bus lanes on Manningham Road in both directions between High Street and Williamsons Road. Heavy traffic is expected on surrounding arterials, specifically Doncaster Road, Tram Road, Manningham Road, and Middleborough Road. If you are traveling toward the city, detours are in place via Doncaster Road and Burke Road.

Public Transport and Metro Tunnel Updates

Following the 'Big Switch' earlier this February, the Metro Tunnel is now the primary corridor for the Sunbury, Cranbourne, and Pakenham lines. Commuters are reminded that these services no longer run through the City Loop. While no major planned disruptions are reported for the underground metro lines today, passengers using the Frankston line should note its permanent return to the City Loop via the Caulfield tunnel.

For regional travelers, V/Line has issued speed restrictions on the Echuca and Swan Hill lines until the end of the month due to recent track maintenance. Additionally, travelers using Caroline Springs Station should be aware of temporary changes to pedestrian access and car parking which remain in effect through the weekend.

Local Roadworks and Bike Lane Alerts

In the inner city, bike lane construction on Macaulay Road continues today between Boundary Road and Langford Street. Partial road closures will be in place from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Drivers and cyclists should exercise caution and follow local signage. Authorities recommend that all commuters allow at least 30 to 60 minutes of extra travel time if their route involves the north-eastern suburbs tonight.