Sydney’s commuters embraced a significant shift in travel with the official opening of the new section of the Sydney Metro line on 19 August. The much-anticipated launch saw the first trains depart from Tallawong at 4:38 am, marking the beginning of a new era in the city’s public transport.
The new 15.5-kilometre underground line connects Sydenham in the inner west to Chatswood in the north, seamlessly linking with the existing Northwest Metro line. Travellers can now make the journey from Sydenham to Tallawong in just under an hour, with stops at key stations including Crows Nest, Barangaroo, Martin Place, and Gadigal (Pitt St).
With 45 new trains capable of reaching speeds of up to 100 km/h, the service is designed to meet the demands of Sydney’s growing population. During peak hours, trains arrive every four minutes, ensuring a swift and efficient commute. Off-peak times will see trains running every seven minutes, providing a consistent and reliable service throughout the day.
Thousands gathered at Tallawong Station to witness the first trains roll out, capturing the moment with photos and videos as the driverless system embarked on its maiden journey. Sydney Metro chief Peter Regan, visibly pleased with the day’s success, noted that 50,000 workers contributed to the completion of the mega project.
The new section of the Metro is poised to redefine daily commutes for many Sydneysiders, offering a fast, modern, and efficient alternative to the city’s existing transport options. NSW Transport Minister Jo Haylen, accompanied by her six-year-old son, was among those on board the first service. She described the opening as a “truly historic day” for the city, predicting that the Metro would change the way people travel in Sydney.
Despite the excitement, the opening had faced challenges, including a two-week delay following concerns from the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator. However, services on Monday ran smoothly, with no significant issues reported.
NSW Premier Chris Minns took to social media to acknowledge the efforts of his predecessors, crediting former Premier Mike Baird, Gladys Berejiklian, and Dominic Perrottet for their roles in bringing the project to fruition.
“Credit where credit’s due, none of this would have been possible without their vision,” Minns wrote on X, previously known as Twitter.
As commuters continue to explore the new line, the Sydney Metro is set to become a cornerstone of the city’s transport infrastructure, promising a more connected and accessible Sydney for years to come.
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