Communters across NSW should brace for significant delays this week, as industrial action by the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) will significantly reduce the number of peak-hour services to 50 per cent on Tuesday, June 28, and by up to 75 per cent later in the week.
The action will begin on June 28, with all trains slowed to a maximum speed of 60km per hour, meaning not only will there be fewer services but journey times will also be significantly longer. As was the case during the rail strikes earlier this year, there is likely to be knock-on impacts on other parts of the transport network such as bus and light rail services.
The strike action is in response to safety concerns about the new InterCity fleet. RTBU secretary Alex Claassens said the government was attempting to “bribe” train drivers with monetary incentives to ignore safety concerns.
Transport for NSW is urging commuters to make alternative travel arrangements where possible and to only travel for essential reasons this week.