Being too harsh on new train operator Metro?

[xXNovaxX]

http://www.theage.com.au/national/melbournes-new-rail-operator-metro-hit-by-major-delays-20091201-k1oi.html

I loved the quote by some1 "a new coat of paint and a name change, wont stop failure" or something like that regarding the new Metro company taking over from Connex.

However IMO, i think people, THE MEDIA is being too harsh, it's only been 2 days, and like the delays do NOT connect directly with the bringing in of a new company, but rather INFRASTRUCTURE and technical issues.

If a trains stuffs up, as has happened last 2 days, it's CONNEX's fault since they would have serviced it/mainted it LAST, the Gov can also be blamed a little.

I'm trying to be optimistic about the new train operators because I think there's change possible

I like a lot of the new changes to be brought in...

*Telling people exactly why their train service has been cancelled, as well as ESTIMATED WAIT (previously communication between Connex and passenger was an issue, and u would just be told "train cancelled"

*They have hired extra staff to help people get on board....some say FORCE/PUSH, but still, even if they did that, they can still help....more staff can only be a good thing/some1 to ask something.

*They said new trains are gonna be brought in every month until sometime

*And they really seem bent on performance...they said something like wanting to achieve 99% of trains to be on time, as well as REDUCING THE TIME which is defined as "late", from like 5 minutes to 3 (for example), to be LOWERING this time, and risk increased embarrassment of late trains is surely a good thing, as it "forces" them to improve.

Only time will tell 

[Eriny]

I'm cautiously optimistic. I think that Melbourne's rail network has a lot of potential but I guess one problem is that Melbourne is pretty huge and so wide coverage and services is difficult. There also needs to be more trains during peak times which is difficult when the infrastructure is pretty remedial in some places.

[xXNovaxX]

I'm cautiously optimistic. I think that Melbourne's rail network has a lot of potential but I guess one problem is that Melbourne is pretty huge and so wide coverage and services is difficult. There also needs to be more trains during peak times which is difficult when the infrastructure is pretty remedial in some places.

I like that word....CAUTIOUSLY OPTIMISTIC. Thats what I am you simply put it into actual words, THANKS!

Do you think there's enough ROOM on the existing train lines? Since the freeways are at max capacity (if u drive on the monash now, i cant really see where they can add ANY extra lanes in 30 years time)....i would assume train lines are as well, since train lines only are made up of ONE "lane" (i think?!)

[periwinkle]

         What many Londoners think of the tube staff
         http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FYVJSOFZxDE

[midas_touch]

A definitive assesment of Metro cannot be made until they've been in service for at least half a year. Hearing metro through the speakers is gonna take time to get used to though, along with the 'new coat of paint'

[Gloamglozer]

A definitive assesment of Metro cannot be made until they've been in service for at least half a year. Hearing metro through the speakers is gonna take time to get used to though, along with the 'new coat of paint'

Apparently, it will take 10 months until all the trains will be repainted with the new logo.

[minilunchbox]

My suburb is located right in the middle of 3 train stations so I have to rely on buses that come every 10 hours instead.

Train delays are going to cause people to pay extra when we use myki because they can't tell that the train was supposed to come earlier and will end up charging you.

[excal]

myki isn't based on time charges is it? I thought it was on stop-to-stop?

[minilunchbox]

myki isn't based on time charges is it? I thought it was on stop-to-stop?

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/australian-it/brumby-backs-myki/story-e6frgakx-1225798661384