Sydney Trains commuters faced major delays and cancellations today as widespread industrial action disrupted the rail network. Passengers experienced significant travel disruptions with around 80 per cent of services cancelled, according to Sydney Trains Chief Executive Matt Longland.
Major Disruptions Across Key Lines
The T1 North Shore and Western, T4 Eastern Suburbs and Illawarra, and T8 Southern and Airport Lines have been the worst affected by the Sydney Trains industrial action. Passengers have endured extended wait times, slow journeys, and unexpected cancellations throughout the day.
Sydney Trains implemented a crisis command early in the morning to manage the disruptions. Emergency bus services were deployed in key areas, including Bondi Junction, Redfern, Homebush, and Strathfield. However, the additional 50 buses provided limited relief compared to the widespread service cancellations.
Ongoing Industrial Action
Matt Longland confirmed that union leaders have committed to continuing the Sydney Trains industrial action for the next three days. He advised commuters to plan their trips carefully and explore alternative modes of public transport.
The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) has implemented speed restrictions, reducing train speeds by 23km/h on sections of track where speeds normally reach up to 80km/h. This go-slow strategy is part of a prolonged pay dispute between the union and the NSW Government.
Longland reported that maintenance work at Bondi and Homebush remained incomplete overnight, further contributing to the disruption. Sydney Trains is concerned these delays will affect other lines as the day progresses.
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Commuters Express Frustration
Commuters have shared their frustrations over long delays and packed services. Some trains have remained stationary at platforms for over 30 minutes, while others have crawled along key routes, such as the T1 line from Central to Parramatta.
A commuter reported being stuck on a train for nearly two hours for a journey that normally takes 30 minutes. Many passengers have turned to rideshare services, but high demand has led to increased fares despite a price cap implemented earlier by Uber.
One commuter shared their disappointment, explaining they opted for a rideshare service after an hour of delays on their train journey. They were shocked by the high fare for a short trip, underscoring the widespread impact on daily travel routines.
Government’s Response
NSW Transport Minister Jo Haylen apologised to Sydney Trains passengers for the severe disruptions but attributed the delays to the ongoing industrial action. She described the situation as a “boa constrictor strangling our network” due to the extensive work bans.
Haylen urged the rail workers to consider the government’s pay offer seriously. She stated that the NSW Government had proposed a 15 per cent pay rise over four years, including a 13 per cent base increase and 2 per cent additional superannuation benefits.
She emphasised that the offer is fair and reasonable, calling on the RTBU to end the industrial action and accept the pay rise to restore services.
RTBU’s Position
The RTBU continues to push for a 32 per cent pay rise over four years. The union argues the current offer lacks clarity on certain key points and requires further negotiations.
RTBU NSW Branch Secretary Toby Warnes acknowledged the revised pay proposal but expressed concerns over the offer’s details. The union claims the offer presented in December failed to meet worker expectations and significant work remains to finalise terms.
Impact on Services
Sydney Trains reported nearly 400 cancelled services as of midday, with predictions rising to a thousand cancellations as the industrial action continues. Sydney Trains advised passengers to use alternative modes of transport, including buses, ferries, the metro, and light rail services.
However, with increased passenger loads, many replacement services have struggled to meet demand. Transport for NSW has collaborated with rideshare services like Uber to cap fares and ensure more drivers are available during peak hours.
Delays Expected to Persist
Sydney Trains warned commuters to expect disruptions for the next few days as the industrial action continues. The network remains under strain due to both the speed restrictions and unresolved maintenance work.
Passengers have been encouraged to stay updated through the Transport NSW website and the Sydney Trains X profile for real-time service alerts. Longland emphasised the importance of checking multiple transport options before planning trips.
Looking Ahead
The NSW Government remains firm on its pay offer and urges the RTBU to reconsider its stance. Haylen reiterated that the proposed increase is both competitive and sustainable.
Meanwhile, commuters continue to bear the brunt of the Sydney Trains industrial action, with travel times doubled in some cases. As both parties hold their positions, Sydney Trains passengers face ongoing uncertainty in the days ahead.