Passenger operator Metro Trains Melbourne fell short of its punctuality and service level targets in the month of August due to a range of incidents both in and out of its control, Public Transport Victoria has said.
Metro Trains delivered just 98.1 per cent of scheduled services, below its 98.5 per cent target in August. Just 89.9 per cent of services were on time, below the 92 per cent punctuality target.
Victoria’s head of transport services Jeroen Weimar said the results were “unacceptable”.
“Our metropolitan passengers deserve a more punctual and reliable service,” Weimar said. While there were some unavoidable delays during August, Metro Trains needs to ensure it is delivering a service that our passengers need and expect.”
Metro Trains was hampered multiple police operations, and a number of people found walking on and around train tracks. An increased number of ill passengers and congested platforms also caused delays.
An overhead equipment fault suspended Frankston line services on August 13, and a vehicle that was struck by a train at Spotswood also delayed services on August 5.
“We will continue to work with Metro Trains to ensure its performance returns to acceptable levels,” Weimar said.
Meanwhile, tram operator Yarra Trams delivered an 84.5 per cent punctuality figure, well above its 82 per cent target, but achieved just 98.3 per cent reliability, below the 98.5 per cent target.
Weimar noted the tram network had been impacted by a four-hour work stoppage on August 30.
“Industrial action has an impact on passengers, however it is pleasing to see Yarra Trams deliver a reliable service despite the disruptions experienced in late August,” Weimar said. “We encourage all parties involved in these negotiations to keep working towards a satisfactory agreement to ensure passengers receive a tram service they deserve.”
Regional operator V/Line exceeded its 96 per cent delivery target, with 97.3 per cent of services delivered. 87.8 per cent of services were on time, up 0.9 percentage points from last August, and up from the 87.2 per cent 12-month average.
“It’s encouraging to see this improvement following the ongoing infrastructure upgrades that continue to be carried out across the regional train network,” Weimar said.