The decision to cancel all train services for 24 hours in February resulted in widespread commuter chaos in the city. After weeks of tense discussions over pay and workplace conditions, NSW Transport Minister David Elliott has announced that Sydney residents will be compensated with 12 days of free travel across the city’s public transport network.
The decision comes after the NSW Rail, Tram and Bus Union threatened to strike every Friday in June unless the Government issues fare free travel for commuters as an apology for February’s events.
Fare free public transport for Sydney
“To commuters affected by recent rail disruptions, I want to say a heartfelt thank you for your patience,” Mr Elliott said on Sunday.
“I hope the fare-free 12 days of Easter is a way for you to enjoy quality time with family and friends during the school holidays, while at the same time helping to revitalise our city centres and local communities,” he added.
Better yet, the free public transport won’t end with just Greater Sydney. The Opal services extend to the Blue Mountains, Central Coast and the Hunter and Illawarra regions.
Private ferries, the airport line and Point to Point bus service have been excluded from the free travel deal but trains, buses and ferries will operate free of cost. This comes into effect from 4am on April 14 until 3.59am on April 26.
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