The crowd at East Pakenham station has swelled significantly this morning as public transport enthusiasts gather to experience the first trains departing from Melbourne’s new Metro Tunnel. Hundreds of eager passengers arrived at 8:37 AM, ready to make the return journey on the newly inaugurated line.
Metro Trains staff are distributing commemorative pins to the crowd, which waits patiently in the chilly weather to access the platform. Among the first in line are Kira Reilly and Tyler Noble-Day, both enthusiastic about the new service. Reilly, a resident of Frankston, expressed his excitement, saying, “We haven’t had any significant upgrades for the past 40 years. It’s just a very exciting thing that Melbourne is getting. It’s a good first step to join the rest of the world in modernizing our transport systems.”
A Festive Atmosphere at East Pakenham
As the clock ticks down to the first Metro Tunnel train’s departure from East Pakenham, the atmosphere is festive. A brass band performs in the underground concourse, and a small line of commuters eagerly awaits the inaugural service. Mini pastries and gift bags are being prepared for distribution, adding to the celebratory mood.
A screen displaying departing services now prominently features the “express via Metro Tunnel” train, scheduled to leave at 9:03 AM. East Pakenham, a newly constructed station designed to accommodate the region’s growing communities, opened in 2024 and now serves as the railway line’s terminus.
The Journey Through the Metro Tunnel
For those unable to attend in person, the first train carrying passengers through the Metro Tunnel is set to depart Sunbury at 9:28 AM. It is expected to enter the tunnel at South Kensington around 10:06 AM, reaching the first Metro Tunnel station, Arden, in North Melbourne for a 10:09 AM departure.
The first train traveling in the opposite direction departs from East Pakenham at 9:03 AM, with an anticipated arrival at Anzac station for a 10:12 AM departure. This timing allows the Sunbury train to narrowly claim the distinction of being the first to enter the tunnel. From Arden, the train will continue through four additional new stations—Parkville, State Library, Town Hall, and Anzac—before emerging in South Yarra around 10:25 AM, ultimately traveling to Dandenong.
Background and Significance of the Metro Tunnel Project
The opening of the Metro Tunnel marks the culmination of an eight-year, $15 billion project that has transformed Melbourne’s public transport landscape. The new infrastructure includes five stations and two underground tunnels spanning nine kilometers, linking the inner north-west at South Kensington with the inner south-east at South Yarra.
This ambitious project faced numerous challenges, including complex engineering tasks and significant urban planning considerations. The Metro Tunnel is expected to ease congestion on existing lines, provide faster travel times, and enhance connectivity across the city.
“After eight years and a total cost of $15 billion, the Metro Tunnel is opening. Five new stations and two new underground tunnels spanning nine kilometers link the inner north-west in South Kensington with the inner south-east in South Yarra.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Melbourne’s Transport
The Metro Tunnel’s opening is a pivotal moment in Melbourne’s transport history, setting the stage for future developments. The project not only modernizes the city’s infrastructure but also aligns with global trends towards efficient and sustainable urban transport solutions.
Experts believe that the Metro Tunnel will serve as a catalyst for further investment in public transport, encouraging more Melburnians to opt for trains over cars. This shift is expected to contribute to reduced traffic congestion and lower emissions, supporting the city’s environmental goals.
As Melbourne continues to grow, the Metro Tunnel represents a significant step forward in ensuring that the city’s transport network can accommodate future demands. The project is a testament to the city’s commitment to improving public transport and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
With the first trains now running through the Metro Tunnel, commuters and transport enthusiasts alike can look forward to a new era of convenience and connectivity in Melbourne’s public transport system.
