Tranpsort chaos points to summer of smog

Friday, 21 December 2001 10:00

TEC Director Mr Jeff Angel said "As the temperature climbs over summer we can expect a repeat of the annual pattern of dangerously high smog levels. The failure of the State Government to deliver on major public transport initiatives has left Sydney facing yet another air pollution crisis."

Hot weather conditions over summer each year result in the atmospheric conversion of vehicle emissions to ozone, the major indicator of photochemical smog. The State Government promised to improve public transport and reduce car use as part of its 'Action for Air' program, however major projects such as the Parramatta to Chatswood and Castle Hill railway lines are lagging seriously behind schedule, while others, such as major bus only transitways, appear to have been shelved.

"The furore over the $3 Harbour Bridge toll and Sydney's inadequate transport capacity point to a system in disarray. Public transport to the Sydney's north-west, in particular, is totally inadequate, with promised improvements being placed on the backburner". Mr Angel said.
TEC has called on the State Government to provide a major boost to public transport funding in next year's state budget.

"Public transport and air pollution will be a key issue in the 2003 State Election. Next year's state budget is the Government's last chance to show its credentials. As a minimum, funding must be provided to allow construction of the Strathfield to Hurstville, Castle Hill and Rouse Hill, Parramatta to Chatswood and Bondi Loop to begin by 2005", Mr Angel said