UPDATE: Melbourne has officially entered a new era of train travel as the highly anticipated Metro Tunnel opened its doors to the public today, October 15, 2023. Enthusiastic crowds gathered to experience the inaugural ride through the underground rail line, chanting “Tunnel, tunnel, tunnel!” as the first train departed from Pakenham East.
The excitement was palpable as passengers explored five new city stations, marking a significant development in the city’s transport infrastructure. The Metro Tunnel extends nearly 100 kilometres and connects Sunbury in the north-west with Pakenham East, significantly easing congestion in the City Loop.
Festivities kicked off early this morning at both ends of the line. By 8:30 AM, approximately 150 people were lined up at Sunbury, eager for a chance to be part of history. Among the first in line were father and son duo, Craig and Fraser Hill, who woke up at 4 AM to secure their spot. “I love trains. I’m really looking forward to seeing the new stations,” said Fraser, just 15 years old, reflecting the excitement shared by many.
The new Metro Tunnel begins at Sunbury and travels underground through Kensington, connecting to Parkville, the CBD, and Domain, before emerging at South Yarra. This critical expansion will streamline services along the busy Cranbourne and Pakenham corridor, directly impacting daily commuters and reducing travel times.
The launch marks a pivotal moment for Melbourne’s public transport system, promising enhanced connectivity for thousands of passengers. Authorities have confirmed that the new service will not only accommodate more travelers but also improve overall efficiency within the network.
As the day progresses, further updates are expected regarding passenger feedback and operational efficiency. Melbourne’s residents are encouraged to share their experiences on social media, contributing to the growing buzz surrounding this monumental infrastructure achievement.
Stay tuned for more developments as Melbourne embraces its new underground rail network, a change that will undoubtedly shape the future of urban travel in the city.
