“We’ve been testing the system for a long time, and the trains and the systems have been tested over the last 15 months. Clearly, putting passengers into the system is a totally different experience altogether,” he said.
Regan said one of the biggest challenges would be commuters taking time to familiarise themselves with their trips and where to switch to other transport services such as double-decker trains and buses.
“Some people immediately just adapt to what is always there, but others will take some time to work out what’s the best route,” he said.
Metro trains will run every four minutes during peak periods in both directions.Credit: Steven Siewert
Haylen said staff would be deployed across the network on trains and platforms on Monday to ensure commuters could easily navigate the system.
“This is probably the first time for many people in Sydney that they’ve caught a metro, and people need to take their time. Be patient, and don’t run for the doors,” she said.
Meanwhile, the firefighters union has repeatedly raised concerns about emergency response plans for incidents along the metro line.
Staff have been deployed to stations to help commuters familiarise themselves with the metro system.Credit: Steven Siewert
In a bid to allay concerns, Haylen said passengers could have “absolute confidence that this is a safe railway”, citing approval from both the independent regulator and Fire and Rescue NSW.
The new metro line comprises six new underground stations, including at North Sydney, Barangaroo and Martin Place, as well as new platforms at Central and Sydenham.
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The first weeks of operation will influence the start of a 12-month closure of the T3 Bankstown line to allow it to be converted to operate metro trains and the launch of a new timetable for Sydney’s rail network.
The 13-kilometre stretch of converted track between Sydenham and Bankstown will form the final part of the new metro line, and is due to open late next year.
Haylen said she wanted to ensure the city section of the new line was working reliably before the Bankstown line shuts down for construction work. The government has targeted the 12-month closure to start by October.
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Source Agencies
