The testing on the south-west section of the M1 line in Sydney has begun following a recent incident on a driverless train where a door was left open while travelling at high speed. Sydney Metro CEO Peter Regan stated that two staff members manually overrode the system to close the door, but the procedure was not fully followed, resulting in the door remaining open as the train departed Chatswood station. Regan acknowledged the seriousness of the incident and emphasized the need to review systems and procedures to prevent future occurrences.
It remains uncertain whether the final section of the M1 line will open early or late next year, as the testing process is complex and includes older stations and curved platforms. The government anticipates that the opening of the section between Bankstown and Sydenham will increase rail network capacity by an additional 17,000 people per hour during peak periods. Commuters have already been experiencing crowded trains during peak hours on the existing M1 line between Chatswood and Sydenham since it opened last August.
The ongoing testing program for the M1 line may cause significant disruptions for passengers, including full or partial closures on weekends and early termination of services on some nights. The government has allocated an additional $1.1 billion to complete the conversion of the metro line between Chatswood and Bankstown, bringing the total cost of the project to $21.6 billion. This cost increase is substantial compared to the original forecast of $12 billion when the project was first announced in the previous decade.
In light of the recent incidents and disruptions, Sydney Metro is working to ensure the safety and reliability of the M1 line through thorough reviews of systems and procedures. The completion of testing on the south-west section will be crucial in determining the timeline for the final section’s opening next year. The increased capacity expected from the extension of the line between Bankstown and Sydenham aims to address the growing demand for public transport in the region and alleviate overcrowding on existing services.
Despite the challenges and financial investment required to complete the M1 line, the government remains committed to delivering a high-quality and efficient metro service for residents in Sydney. The project represents a significant infrastructure development that will enhance the city’s public transport network and provide commuters with a reliable and convenient travel option. By addressing issues such as the recent incident with the open door on the driverless train, authorities aim to ensure a safe and seamless experience for passengers on the M1 line.
As the testing program progresses and the final section of the M1 line nears completion, the government and Sydney Metro will continue to prioritize safety, efficiency, and reliability in delivering a world-class metro service for Sydney residents. Commuters can expect improvements in capacity, frequency, and overall service quality once the entire line between Chatswood and Bankstown is fully operational. The M1 project represents a significant investment in the city’s transportation infrastructure and is expected to have a lasting impact on public transport in the region.
