Circular Quay train derailment wreaks commuter havoc

Despite lengthy delays that left commuters stranded for more than an hour, Sydney Trains says it won’t be issuing refunds after a derailed maintenance vehicle caused chaos on the network today.

Train services are set to return to normal ahead of the afternoon peak, after a maintenance vehicle derailed near Circular Quay, sparking major delays for morning commuters.

The ute-like maintenance vehicle ran off the tracks about 4am between Wynyard and Circular Quay, forcing the closure of the track in what’s been described as a rare incident.

Staff “spent too much time” attempting to move the vehicle before emergency services were called, Sydney Trains CEO Howard Collins said, however services are expected to return to normal this afternoon.

Crews have been working hard after a track maintenance vehicle derailed. Picture: Twitter

No workers were injured and it has now been returned to the tracks. Picture: Twitter

The delays caused a headache for morning commuters — some of who were delayed for more than an hour. The T2 Inner West, T3 Bankstown and T8 Airport & South Line were all impacted, while further delays were felt on the T1 North Shore Line due to a trespasser at Central.

A Sydney Trains computer display shows the state of the network: Red marks signify delayed trains. Picture: Carla Hildebrandt

Sydney Trains said it won’t be refunding tickets, although it would consider some claims on a “case-by-case basis.”

“We appreciate people had a tough journey this morning and we thank you very much for your patience,” Mr Collins said.

A Transport Management Centre spokesman said in the meantime, passengers should allow extra travel time as stopping patterns and frequency of services may be altered.

Commuters are facing peak-hour chaos on trains this morning after a train derailed at Circular Quay, causing major delays. Picture: John Grainger