The Public Transport Users Association wants more done about overcrowding
Overcrowding on Melbourne trains has come to the attention of the Public Transport Users Association despite some lines being replaced by bus services.
The PTUA has criticised the continued reduced train timetable in the city, which will cut services on some lines by as much as 50 per cent until later this month.
PTUA President Tony Morton says while it was understandable that some lines had buses replacement services or reduced numbers of trains due to major works, other lines were seeing reduced services for no good reason.
“We’re starting to see severe overcrowding in some cases. Imagine what it will be like next week when more people are back from holidays, and the Australian Open starts up and tennis crowds join the fray,” he says.
The PTUA released photos and video footage showing crammed conditions on a Frankston line train this week.
The services immediately before and after the service had been withdrawn because of the reduced timetables.
Passengers have also reported packed services on other lines, including Hurstbridge, Ringwood and trains through North Melbourne.
Morton has called on the Victorian Government to urgently re-instate services on the most crowded lines.
“It may have made sense to have fewer trains just after Christmas, but many CBD workers are back from holidays,” he says.
“If the government can stop concentrating for a moment on the East West road tunnel that nobody asked for, and focus on public transport just like the electorate asked them to, this is easily fixed.
“We need our trains back now.”