On 28 June 1948 the line extension to the new Housing Commission of Victoria estate of Alamein was opened, with most trains extended to the new terminus, except for a minority that turned back at Ashburton. After World War II, as part of Operation Phoenix, plans were drawn up to duplicate the line and provide a flying junction connection at Camberwell. It was authorised in 1951, but was delayed due to funding issues and other competing projects. Earthworks were not completed until December 1958, with the extra platforms at Willison, Burwood and Riversdale also under way, track work being complete by October 1954. The first long stage opened on 7 November 1954, from Hartwell to Ashburton stations, followed by the duplication and automatic signalling of the Riversdale to Hartwell section on 31 July 1955. From 15 July 1955, Ashburton station ceased to be a regular terminus.