MTR to take over for connex, A look at MTR in Hong Kong

THE Victorian Government has responded to commuter frustration over Melbourne’s bursting at the seams public transport system by dumping the metropolitan train and tram operators. Connex and Yarra Trams will not have their contracts renewed at the end of year when the Government instead will sign with two overseas-based companies as it tries to quell the transport headache before next year’s election. But critics say a changing of the guard will not resolve the problems, particularly on the rail network, which has been dogged by cancellations, delays and overcrowding. Hong Kong-based operator MTR Corporation will take over Melbourne’s metropolitan trains in December, when Connex’s contract expires. Yarra Trams will be replaced by French-based company Keolis. Both companies headed bids with local partners. The eight-year contracts, worth billions of dollars, will be finalised in August, with the option of being extended to 15 years, subject to performance. Victorian Premier John Brumby promised significant changes, with the winning bidders guaranteeing safer, cleaner and more reliable transport, with better customer service.