’Stinky, crowded, disgusting’: Commuters slam Brisbane’s trains

Brisbane-based commuters have branded the city’s trains as “crowded”, “stinky” and “disgusting”, with many also claiming only three carriages are used during peak times.

Brisbane-based commuters have taken to social media to vent their increasing anger over the city’s metro system, branding it as “crowded”, “stinky” and “disgusting”.

Many have also claimed Queensland Rail are using just three car carriages during peak hours.

A thread on Reddit named, “Queensland Rail and their Cold War Era trains”, is currently trending on social media, with many commuters commenting on the standard of train carriages on lines around the CBD.

Brisbane's train system has been branded by commuters as stinky and overcrowded. Credit: Reddit

“Is anyone else noticing more and more of the disgusting old EMU trains being used? And 3 car ones at that. In peak hour. They stink, the AC never works and the seats are filthy,” one commenter said.

“QR’s train network is so laughable,” another said.

Queensland Rail admitted to using three-carruiage services instead of the usual six carriages during peak periods during August 2023 due to industrial action.

However, train travellers claim some services never went back to normal following the planned strikes.

Brisbane city commuters have taken to social media to vent their anger. Credit: Reddit

“Hardly anyone can fit or leave,” one commenter said.

“I was on a three-carriage on the way home from work last week. Ipswich/Springfield line 5pm. Was only going Bowen Hills to Toowong and I couldn’t get out! I thought I was going to be trapped forever.”

Queensland Rail’s head of Southeast Queensland Neil Backer said the ultimate aim for Queensland Rail was to provide six carriages on each train for our customers.

“Sometimes and at short notice, due to reduced unit availability, a decision to operate three car trains will occur and will remain the preference over cancelling the service altogether, although in some instances callenlations still may occur,” he said.

Many have created memes. Credit: Reddit

“Reduced rolling stock availability can happen for any number of reasons including network disruptions due to weather, unscheduled maintenance or for the urgent removal of inflammatory or offensive graffiti.

“We appreciate three-car services can make the journey for passengers onboard a little uncomfortable and we apologise for any discomfort encountered.”