Extended 46-Hour Sydney Trains Service Set For New Year’s Eve
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The city’s rail network is preparing for one of its busiest nights of the year, with plans set for Sydney trains–including metro services– to run continuously for 46 hours from 4am on 31 December to 2am on 2 January.
The extended service hopes to accommodate over a million people expected to gather in the city for New Year’s Eve fireworks.
Despite earlier disruptions caused by industrial action, the trains are set to run smoothly on New Year’s Eve. Last week saw 500 train services cancelled during the heated peak of negotiations on 22 December and a further 107 on Christmas Eve. However, only 22 services were cancelled on Friday, showing a substantial improvement.
Industrial action temporarily halted ahead of NYE
Sydney Trains CEO Matt Longland confirmed that major work bans were temporarily halted on Christmas Eve, enabling the rail network to add more than 1000 extra services.
However negotiations between the parties remain unresolved.
“We’re confident for New Year’s Eve, but some minor industrial action remains,” Longland said. He added that track repairs during the holiday period have also disrupted services, though the number of cancellations has significantly dropped.
“We have seen a really significant improvement in the number of cancellations across the network. We’re doing everything we can to minimise inconvenience.”
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Passengers urged to plan ahead, expect long queues and minor delays
To ensure the smooth crowd control during Sydney’s biggest night, authorities are urging passengers to plan ahead and expect delays, especially between midnight and 2am.
Longland acknowledged the logistical challenge of transporting large droves in such a short time period.
“Expect long queues and we advise you follow the instructions of station staff, who will be doing their best to minimize waiting times and ensure safety,” assured Longland.
He also advised anyone feeling unwell to avoid traveling, as medical issues could delay thousands of people on what is expected to be the biggest and busiest night of the year.
Light rail changes and road closure
Transport for NSW Coordinator-General Howard Collins further emphasized the importance of preparation, specifically referring to road closures and light rail changes in the CBD.
“Light rail services will terminate at Central Station to allow pedestrian traffic on George Street. Be aware of clearways; last year, we towed over 220 cars,” he said.
The 46-hour extended rail and metro services are aiming to try and provide a seamless travel experience for the New Year’s Eve fireworks, ensuring everyone can enjoy their celebrations and return home safely.
Passengers have been encouraged to arrive early, be patient, and make use of the 46-hour non-stop service to enjoy Sydney’s iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks and more celebrations.
