Commuters warned of major disruptions amid ongoing rail strike

Commuters are being warned of major disruptions on the country’s busiest rail network on Thursday, with some services reduced by 70 per cent.

Rail worker strikes will continue to impact Sydney’s network on Thursday, with services possibly reduced by up to 70 per cent.

Commuters have been warned to expect significant disruptions and make alternative plans where possible.

“Further protected industrial action will limit the flexibility needed to be able to manage a large and complex network efficiently, with services expected to operate to a significantly reduced timetable to ensure safe operations of the network,” Transport for NSW said.

“This could see Sydney Trains services reduced by as much as 70 per cent during peak periods and customers should expect disruption including delays, altered stopping patterns and cancellations.”

The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) claimed on Thursday the government had agreed to one of its demands for a $264 million safety upgrade on the New Intercity Fleet (NIF), following significant industrial action earlier in the week.

RTBU Union NSW Branch Secretary Alex Claassens said planned action for the rest of the week would go ahead pending a more concrete commitment to the changes.

The government is reported to have conceded a major demand of unions, however planned action will go ahead pending a firmer commitment. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Swift

“This isn’t the first time the NSW government has promised it will fix the safety issues. Rail workers and commuters have been burnt too many times to believe what one minister in one meeting says,” he said.

“We need to see the whole package in writing to make sure this isn’t just another case of the NSW government playing political games.”

Thursday’s actions will include a 24-hour ban on train drivers travelling as a passenger while on duty.

Further planned action on Friday will impact up to about 70 per cent of the rail fleet and around 75 per cent of services.

Limited replacement buses will operate in some locations, but Sydney Trains services on Friday during the peak could be reduced by as much as 75 per cent, according to Transport NSW.