Trespassers and strikes contribute to bad month for trams and trains

Track faults, trespassers, and strikes led to another bad month for public transport, with tram customers able to claim a refund as compensation for the chaos.

Track faults, trespassers, and strike action created headaches for Melbourne’s rail commuters last month, with train and tram operators failing their punctuality targets.

Both Metro Trains and Yarra Trams fell below their goals in February and tram customers are again eligible to apply for compensation.

Last month, 5565 metropolitan trains did not run on time and more than 1600 of these were delayed by trespassers who illegally walked on to the tracks and threw the network into chaos.

The Department of Transport’s head of transport services, Jeroen Weimar, said Metro had delivered more of its timetable compared to previous months but still had work to do.

“We continue to work with Metro Trains to ensure punctuality improves in line with what passengers expect from our metropolitan network,” he said.

Tram routes 70 at Docklands. Picture: Nicole Garmston

But two days of union strikes on February 17 and 20 derailed the scorecard for Yarra Trams.

Just 81.5 per cent of its services ran on time while 4263 trips were cancelled.

“It’s pleasing the parties have come to an agreement that will end any further disruptions for our tram passengers,” Mr Weimar said.

A poor reliability score means tram customers who have held a Myki pass for more than 28 days and touched on at least 10 time can claim a free trip here

A fatal train derailment at Wallan also disrupted the V/Line network along with another round of industrial action from the Rail, Tram and Bus Union.

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