Capacity on the public transport network will be increased on Monday, as lockdown lifts in Greater Sydney.
Transport for NSW Chief Operations Officer, Howard Collins, said with vaccination rates continuing to rise and in line with the easing of restrictions across the State, COVIDSafe capacity will increase to around 50 per cent on public transport across the State.
“We know our public transport network plays a vital role as restrictions begin to ease and increasing capacity across buses, trains, lightrail and ferries will allow us to support a return to jobs, recreation and other activities in a COVIDSafe way,” Mr Collins said.
“All modes will return to a dynamic Monday – Friday base timetable which will see around 18,000 extra services each weekday.”
A Waratah train will now be able to carry 86 customers per carriage, up from 32, a typical two-door bus will be able to carry 27 customers, up from 12, and light rail carriages will be able to carry up to 71 customers, up from 22, and a Freshwater ferry will be able to carry 543 customers, up from 245.
NSW Trainlink services will be pre-booked to 50 per cent capacity, with additional demand being met by supplementary coach services, to maintain physical distancing when travelling long distances.
“While patronage dropped to its lowest we have seen throughout the pandemic, we expect more people will begin to return to the network and we ask that everyone continue to be COVIDSafe – Plan ahead, wear a mask and find a green dot,” Mr Collins said.
“Green physical distancing dots will continue to guide customers on the best places to sit and stand on all modes. More will be rolled out across the network in line with the health advice.
“As we have done throughout the pandemic, we ask all customers to consider their travel options including travelling off peak, walking, cycling and driving if possible.”
School services will run to their usual timetable from October 18 however we do ask parents and carers consider all your travel options for the school pick up and drop off, including cycling, walking and driving if possible.
“But, we cannot stress this enough – if you are unwell, stay at home, get tested and do not get on public transport,” Mr Collins said.
“I want to thank all the commuters and businesses who have worked with us from day one and continue to work with us to keep services safe and moving.”
