On March 31, the day the Victorian Government’s free PT initiative came into effect, commuters were already describing the busy Seymour line peak hour service as overloaded.
In the days since, members of the Seymour Train-line Action Group on Facebook were posting about a decrease in carriages for peak services.
“Free travel today, but only two carriages for 5.03am Southern Cross to Seymour (service) — despite government assurances that the train systems will ‘cope’ with the increase in commuters,” Samantha McCormack wrote.
“And the 6.57am peak hour train this morning. This is a very busy service. Dare I say our extra carriages have gone to another line who needed them, as we always seem to be at the bottom of the pecking order.”
State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland has reported that commuters travelling on the Albury line faced uncertainty as a result of the new system where pre-purchased tickets aren’t used.
“People are turning up to stations only to find services full, or worse, replaced by buses that don’t have enough capacity to take everyone,” she said.
“I’ve heard from constituents who have been left stranded on platforms with no clear way to continue their journey.”
With free public transport resulting in an influx of passengers on services throughout the state, travellers are being encouraged to travel outside peak periods and plan ahead.
V/Line also has coaches on standby across the network, including on the Seymour line.
The free period of public transport runs throughout April and May. From June 1, half-price fares will kick in.
A spokesperson said the government was doing what it could to assist passengers.
“Victorians are embracing free travel on public transport and V/Line is running more services than every before, with extra weekly services and capacity added on the Seymour and Albury lines in recent years,” they said.
“We continue to closely monitor patronage across the network over coming weeks and, where possible, have coaches on standby at key locations to assist passengers.”
Elderly passengers and those with accessibility or medical needs are encouraged to call 1800 800 007 before travelling to ensure staff are aware of their travel needs and can assist if needed.
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