PASSENGERS on Melbourne-bound train services from Ballarat have spoken out about
the new V/Line timetable
, calling it “retrograde” and “unsatisfactory.”
A week after the new timetable started, train passengers have complained to The Courier that
services are late and overcrowded
, but V/Line has defended the service and blamed extenuating circumstances for recent delays.
At least two services between Southern Cross and Wendouree were delayed by about 30 minutes last week, and Wednesday’s 7.41am service to Melbourne arrived more than 20 minutes late.
V/Line spokesperson Daniel Moloney said the delays had been caused by
cold weather, a sick passenger and a cow
seen near the train tracks.
“We obviously apologise to our passengers for services that arrive late, but these problems are not related to the new timetable,” he said.
“It is frustrating that problems occur, but on a system as big as ours sometimes things happen which cause delays.”
David, a public servant who travels to Melbourne every day, said he was considering a move away from Ballarat because of unreliable train services.
“The problem for me is that the trains just don’t run to timetable and I really love Ballarat but am considering moving back to Melbourne because the unsatisfactory impact on my work and lifestyle is so consistent.” Anne, who wrote to The Courier, said the
problems were increasing since the change in timetable. “This is so retrograde and outrageous.”