Melbourne commuters worried amid rise of train track trespassers
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The convenience of Australia's train networks is something many have come to rely on.
It's a lifeline for commuters, connecting them to work, family, and friends.
However, a worrying trend in one area is coming full speed ahead: a spike in train track trespassers.
According to Metro Trains Executive Paul O'Halloran, Melbourne has seen a 40 per cent increase in individuals unlawfully venturing onto Metro Trains tracks within the past year.
With about eight reports daily, this equates to nearly 3,000 incidents annually.
It's not just a startling statistic; it's a reminder of the unseen challenges our community faces, particularly in mental health.
Mr O'Halloran pointed out that the return of commuters to the network post-COVID-19 lockdowns has played a role.
However, he also acknowledges the complexity of the situation, as increased mental health issues are a significant contributing factor.
The pattern of trespassing isn't random either; repeat offenders are causing significant delays and disruptions.
Not only does it pose a risk to their safety, but it also causes considerable inconvenience and potential danger to the travelling public.
The pattern varies, with new offenders coming in and out, but approximately ten individuals are responsible for continuous interruptions.
The hotspots for these incidents are between Richmond and North Melbourne—areas that inconvenience many commuters.
Security and surveillance teams have employed drones to locate trespassers and swiftly direct police to the scene.
The drones are an addition to the 11,000 CCTV cameras across the network.
Security patrols are a common sight at known hotspots, with guards trained to recognise repeat offenders and contact police upon sighting.
Efforts to deter trespassers include the installation of 16 km of fencing at critical points.
Anti-trespasser ground panels were also introduced at five hotspot locations in December 2019 and at every platform at Flinders St Station in 2021.
The lines under watch include the Frankston, Sandringham, Pakenham, Cranbourne, and Mernda lines.
Metro Trains has taken a proactive approach in these areas by erecting signs with Lifeline's contact information.
The message 'Pause, call, be heard' encourages those in crisis to seek help.
The Victorian government is paying attention to this issue.
Over the past three years, they have invested $6 billion into mental health support, ensuring that Victorians have access to the help they need when they need it and close to home.
As members of society, we understand the importance of safety and reliability in our public transport system.
We also recognise the underlying societal issues that contribute to such trends.
It's a call to action for us as a community to support mental health initiatives and reach out to those who may be struggling.
If you or someone you know needs assistance, The Seniors Discount Club has an official list of mental health hotlines. You may find them all here.
It's a lifeline for commuters, connecting them to work, family, and friends.
However, a worrying trend in one area is coming full speed ahead: a spike in train track trespassers.
According to Metro Trains Executive Paul O'Halloran, Melbourne has seen a 40 per cent increase in individuals unlawfully venturing onto Metro Trains tracks within the past year.
With about eight reports daily, this equates to nearly 3,000 incidents annually.
It's not just a startling statistic; it's a reminder of the unseen challenges our community faces, particularly in mental health.
Trespassers in Metro Trains stations have significantly increased for the past year, with executives citing complex factors like mental health as a factor. Image Credit: Pexels/Ronaldo Santos
Mr O'Halloran pointed out that the return of commuters to the network post-COVID-19 lockdowns has played a role.
However, he also acknowledges the complexity of the situation, as increased mental health issues are a significant contributing factor.
The pattern of trespassing isn't random either; repeat offenders are causing significant delays and disruptions.
Not only does it pose a risk to their safety, but it also causes considerable inconvenience and potential danger to the travelling public.
The pattern varies, with new offenders coming in and out, but approximately ten individuals are responsible for continuous interruptions.
The hotspots for these incidents are between Richmond and North Melbourne—areas that inconvenience many commuters.
Security and surveillance teams have employed drones to locate trespassers and swiftly direct police to the scene.
The drones are an addition to the 11,000 CCTV cameras across the network.
Security patrols are a common sight at known hotspots, with guards trained to recognise repeat offenders and contact police upon sighting.
Efforts to deter trespassers include the installation of 16 km of fencing at critical points.
Anti-trespasser ground panels were also introduced at five hotspot locations in December 2019 and at every platform at Flinders St Station in 2021.
The lines under watch include the Frankston, Sandringham, Pakenham, Cranbourne, and Mernda lines.
Metro Trains has taken a proactive approach in these areas by erecting signs with Lifeline's contact information.
The message 'Pause, call, be heard' encourages those in crisis to seek help.
The Victorian government is paying attention to this issue.
Over the past three years, they have invested $6 billion into mental health support, ensuring that Victorians have access to the help they need when they need it and close to home.
As members of society, we understand the importance of safety and reliability in our public transport system.
We also recognise the underlying societal issues that contribute to such trends.
It's a call to action for us as a community to support mental health initiatives and reach out to those who may be struggling.
If you or someone you know needs assistance, The Seniors Discount Club has an official list of mental health hotlines. You may find them all here.
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