Re: Met Automated Ticketing

J Richmond (richmond@melbpc.org.au)
Wed, 4 Feb 1998 18:35:47 +1100

>Hmmm. I have only heard grumblings about how bad this new system is.
>Cant do this
>Cant do that anymore
>Not the way it used to be.
>There will be teething troubles for a little while, till everyone gets
>used to the new rules and regulations.
>Already I have seen improvements to the level of services on the
>trams, and hopefully in the future this will lead to a faster
>timetable. Specifically.
>It is now about 5 minutes quicker to get to work, as everyone boards
>the tram (Zs), and the tram is off. Those who have prebrought
>tickets can validate and sit down. The tram no longer has a queue out
>the front door, as everyone is lined up to buy their tickets.
>Weekend services will also benefit, with the driver relieved of the
>duties of issuing tickets.
>Andrew

I agree wholeheartedly with Andrew. There will be a few teething problems,
but it will become part of our public transport lifestyle. You will remember
to pre-buy your Daily tickets, you will remember to have a little change in
your pocket and you will remember to validate your ticket.

Also, when the public transport system is privatised, the ticketing system
will improve. No private operator wants their main source of revenue abused
or unusable!

This system is long overdue for Melbourne. It was inevitable and it's just a
pity that Jeff chose such an incompetent company to install them.

Thankyou for listening.
Sam Eades
metman@earthling.net