UPDATE: Melbourne has officially entered a new era of train travel as the highly anticipated Metro Tunnel opened to the public on October 15, 2023. Crowds of jubilant passengers chanted “Tunnel, tunnel, tunnel” as the first train journeyed along the nearly 100-kilometre underground rail line, marking a significant milestone in the city’s public transport history.
The excitement was palpable as passengers explored the five new city stations that have now become operational. Celebrations kicked off early in the morning at both ends of the city, specifically at Sunbury and Pakenham East, the two termini of the new rail line. This ambitious project has successfully diverted several services out of the congested City Loop, enhancing accessibility for commuters.
By 8:30 AM, around 150 eager passengers had lined up at Sunbury, ready to board the first train to enter the tunnel. Among them were father and son duo Craig and Fraser Hill, who arrived as early as 4 AM to secure their spot. “I love trains. I’m really looking forward to seeing the new stations,” said Fraser, a 15-year-old train enthusiast.
The Metro Tunnel begins at Sunbury in Melbourne’s north-west, traversing underground through Kensington, Parkville, and the Central Business District (CBD) before resurfacing at South Yarra. The line continues along the bustling Cranbourne and Pakenham corridor, significantly easing travel for daily commuters.
Officials confirmed that the Metro Tunnel project is expected to revolutionize travel across the region, providing faster and more efficient services for thousands of passengers. The introduction of this line not only enhances connectivity but also aims to reduce congestion in Melbourne’s transport network.
As the city celebrates this transformative upgrade, commuters are encouraged to take advantage of the new stations and services. The emotional impact of this development is evident, as residents express their excitement about the improved travel experience and the potential for future expansions.
What’s next? Authorities will monitor the new system closely as it begins regular operations, making adjustments based on passenger feedback and performance metrics. This launch sets the stage for ongoing improvements to Melbourne’s public transport infrastructure.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Metro Tunnel continues to reshape the way Melburnians travel.
