Train travellers urged to plan ahead as the big wet impacts rail services

TRAIN travellers are being urged to plan ahead, expect delays and potential cancellations on the rail networks due to the ongoing impacts of severe weather.

Transport for NSW acting Chief Operations Officer Mark Hutchings said unprecedented rainfall is impacting the rail network and some trains will be forced to operate at much lower speeds.

“With bad weather likely to continue and the extent of damage still unclear, we need to act to ensure the safety of our customers whilst also providing as many services as we safely can to keep freight and passengers moving,” Mr Hutchings said.

“Trains will run to an altered frequency or stopping pattern. We are asking customers to avoid any non-essential travel and if you do need to use the network please plan ahead and leave plenty of extra travel time.

“Our crews are working around the clock to assess damage and clear debris quickly.

“Impacts will continue through the rest of this week as we undertake detailed inspections to ensure rail network remains safe for trains and customers.”

NSWTrains Chief Executive, Dale Merrick, says intercity lines will also be affected and running to a reduced timetable.

“While some delays and cancellations cannot be avoided at this time, safety is our number one priority and every effort is being made to maintain services and provide customers with safe alternatives,” Mr Merrick said.

“We ask that customers check to see if their regional coach or train service is affected and allow extra travel time as trips will take longer when running to a reduced speed.

“Heavy rainfall is expected to continue for the coming days and we ask for your patience and understanding during this time.”

Commuters are also urged to be cautious on the road network with localised flooding and damage across the network.

People commuting to work should look to travel outside of peak times or work from home if possible.

To help assist with traffic flow and help people get to and from work and school safely motorists will be able to use the T2 and T3 transit lanes on Monday and not be fined.

Plan ahead at transportnsw.info or call 13 22 32 to change or cancel a booking. You can check LiveTraffic.com for real time updates and find more information on the status of affected roads here.

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