The Victorian Government, however, said it had recently rolled out new, and modern VLocity trains on the line, which it said has reduced journey times and improved reliability.
In the question put to the Victorian Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams, Ms Cleeland asked for a timeline to be provided for the construction of new trains due to persistent issues of overcrowding and unreliable services in the region.
“Every day, I hear complaints from passengers who can't reserve a seat and are left standing or even sitting on the floor for long journeys,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Trains are often sold out well in advance, and too often, passengers are forced to rely on crowded replacement buses—if they’re lucky enough to get a seat at all.
“With limited public transport alternatives, these trains are essential for people needing to attend medical appointments or work.
“This government must prioritise building more trains for the north-east Line in order to increase the number of services in our region and allow locals to utilise one of the few public transportation options available to them.”
While there has been a significant increase in passengers, the number of available seats and carriages on regional train lines is declining.
V/Line’s 2023-24 annual report showed a net decrease in rolling stock carriages of 24, as the retirement of loco-hauled carriages have not been replaced by VLocity carriages at the same rate.
This follows earlier confirmation that services to Albury are offering fewer seats to passengers, due to the previous five-carriage diesel hauled service seating 397 persons, while the new VLocity trains only seat 222 people.
The latest punctuality rate has fallen from 89.1 per cent to 87.4 per cent, well short of the 92 per cent target.
“Despite nearly double the number of passengers on north-east V/Line services, this government has yet to ensure locals can travel comfortably and safely,” Ms Cleeland said.
“For a decade, our community has been calling for improved public transport services, and now even experts warn that the Allan Labor government has pushed V/Line to breaking point.”
A Victorian Government spokesperson said it is upgrading every regional rail line in the state, including the north-east line.
“Former Liberal National governments shut down regional rail lines,” the spokesperson said.
