The Sydney Trains network has been plunged into chaos following a widespread communication glitch.
Commuters were urged to postpone their travel plans and expect lengthy delays on Friday morning.
It’s understood the entire network has been impacted, except the Sydney Metro line in the city’s north-west which is operating as normal.
The major delays are expected to continue ‘well into the afternoon peak’, when thousands of music fans will flock to Allianz Stadium at Moore Park for Paul McCartney’s concert.
‘Allow plenty of extra travel time due to a network wide communication issue. Delay travel if possible or consider using other transport. We’ll update you when we have more information,’ a Sydney Trains alert read.
Commuters have been urged to consider alternative transport options after the Sydney Trains network was plunged into chaos (stock image)
‘Stops & platforms may change at short notice and journeys may take longer. Please listen for announcements and check information screens before getting on trains.’
Adding to the confusion, some station indicator screens are showing incorrect service information as a result of the communication glitch.
‘Please check with staff if you require further assistance at stations,’ the latest alert states.
The chaos sparked a furious response from fed-up commuters on social media.
‘Why is this network so unreliable? Breakdowns happen too often despite constant maintenance shutdowns,’ one man said.
Another fumed: ‘Just increased fares, extended peak hours though Covid is gone but providing s****y service as usual.’
Trains services on the north shore line were running up to 31 minutes late on Friday morning
Another passenger caught up in the mayhem shared a screenshot of services running between 23-31 minutes late on the north shore line.
‘Another proud day for Sydney trains,’ he wrote.
The travel disruptions are in addition to earlier delays on the T4 line line following urgent train repairs at Wolli Creek.
The latest travel chaos follows a 3.7 per cent Opal fare price hike implemented earlier this month.
But the 30 per cent fare discount on weekends on train, bus and light rail services has been extended to Fridays.
It means commuters can travel all day on public transport on Fridays for no more than $8.90 or $4.45 for concession holders.
Friday’s Sydney Trains delays have impacted the entire network (stock image)