For people who rely on public transport in Lilydale, Chirnside Park, Mooroolbark and Kilsyth, major delays may begin appearing with some services being cancelled due to staff shortages.
With a large number of staff isolating, some services may be disrupted over the next few weeks as the Department of Transport (DoT) work to balance timetable requirements with staff availability.
“The Department of Transport continues to work closely with public transport operators to minimise the impact on passengers and to ensure the health and welfare of our staff and passengers,” a spokesperson said.
Passengers are advised to allow extra travel time and to check the departures schedule regularly or at least an hour before their expected travel time.
Although the use of buses, trains and trams in only at 29 per cent of pre-covid levels, driver availability is causing havoc for those users.
A CovidSafe plan is still being enacted by the DoT to ensure the safety of passengers and appropriate hygiene practices are being followed.
“We’re cleaning high-touch surfaces like next-stop buttons, door handles, myki touch points, handrails and grab straps regularly and cleaning trains, trams and buses, stations and stops every night. More than 500 hand sanitisers have been installed across the network.”
All passengers, eight years and over must wear a fitted face mask when travelling on public transport.
The Department of Transport thanks passengers for their patience and understanding during this challenging time.
Public transport information and network status is available at ptv.vic.gov.au or the PTV mobile app.
