New Trains and Facts Overhaul Aim to Restore Confidence in Sydney Rail Network
Sydney, NSW – A half-a-billion-dollar investment in a new train fleet and a commitment to improved passenger information are the key takeaways from Sydney Trains’ response to a recent scathing review of its operations. The overhaul aims to address systemic issues that contributed to major disruptions and a lack of reliable information for commuters.
The push for change comes after notable incidents, including overhead wires falling on a train at Parramatta station in May, which left passengers stranded and highlighted deficiencies in the network’s communication systems. Transport for NSW Secretary Howard Graham acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, “one of the things we need to do is that to make sure the information isn’t making it worse for passengers.” He added that inaccurate information distributed during disruptions had, actually, exacerbated the situation, and pledged, “That will change.”
The new fleet, intended to replace an aging system, is slated to begin service in October on the Blue mountains and Newcastle lines. Graham emphasized the investment, stating, “We have invested more than half a billion dollars renewing the Tangara fleet,” and that retiring older trains would lead to a “more reliable” rail system for passengers.
Beyond the new hardware,a core focus will be on delivering accurate and timely information to commuters. Graham noted that distributing incorrect information during disruptions had worsened the situation, signaling a commitment to a more effective communication strategy.