https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/news-a ... -increases
More aboard as public transport capacity increases
Published15 Apr 2021
More people will be able to climb aboard public transport next week when capacity increases across all services to help support the State’s COVID-19 recovery.
Passengers are reminded that mask wearing is still strongly recommended on public transport when physical distancing can’t be guaranteed.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads and Acting Minister for Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the next stage of the COVIDSafe Transport Plan rolling out on Monday would see capacity increased to about 75 per cent on city services and a return to 100 per cent capacity on regional services.
“Health advice now allows public transport services to increase capacity, which means people can now sit next to each other on their trip,” Mr Toole said.
“We know the fight against COVID isn’t over, so we’ll keep green dots on services in case we need them again down the track.
“We’ve already started to see people returning to the network, and this announcement will give customers even more confidence to use our services in a COVID-safe way.”
From Monday:
A Waratah train will now be able to carry 122 customers per carriage, up from 86
A typical two-door bus will be able to carry 66 customers, up from 42
A L1 light rail will now be able to carry 156 customers per carriage, up from 54
A Freshwater ferry will be able to carry 800 customers, up from 543.
Mr Toole said TrainLink regional rail and coach services would be booked at 100 per cent capacity from Monday, providing even more travel options for those wanting to explore regional NSW.
“It’s only through the support of our customers who have followed the COVID-safe measures across the network for the past 12 months that we’re able to take this next step forward,” Mr Toole said.
Transport for NSW Chief Operating Officer Howard Collins said other measures of the COVIDSafe Transport Plan would continue, including the enhanced cleaning regime to help keep customers COVID-safe across all services in the State.
“We are still asking customers to plan ahead before they leave home, register their Opal card for contact tracing when needed and follow good hygiene practices including staying home if unwell,” Mr Collins said.
“Wearing a face mask is still an important part in limiting the spread of the virus if there is an outbreak, and remains strongly recommended on public transport, especially during those busier times on the network.”