A network upgrade and IT issues have been blamed for major delays across Sydney's train network that left weekend commuters fuming, stranded, and running late by up to two hours.
Transport for NSW announced on Saturday it was experiencing "technical issues" that affected its communications as services failed to arrive on platforms.
Indicator boards, real time apps and train running information may be unavailable or incorrect, it said.
Twenty-nine routes were affected.
Frustrated passengers were left with little information about the issues with screens at many stations, including Central Station, going blank.
"Please delay non-essential travel, utilise local buses or make alternate travel arrangements if possible," Transport for NSW said.
"We apologise for the disruption and appreciate your patience as we restore the network to on-time running."
'Hacking' not to blame
A Sydney Trains spokesman said an "IT issue across all agencies" was responsible for the problems.
"The issues affecting the network arose during a network upgrade. It was not hacking," he said in a statement.
"The IT issue earlier today affected key operating systems that provide visibility of trains and their locations. All critical systems have returned to operation across the transport network."
By the afternoon, direct trains were running to Olympic Park to provide transport for the Bledisloe Cup and AFL events.
Busses were supplementing services at some stations including Campbelltown, Glenfield, Penrith, Olympic park and Richmond, Sydney Trains added.
"Sydney Trains apologises to customers affected by this issue and would like to assure them that we are working hard to return services."
Frustration boils over
Commuters vented on social media about the unexpected transport meltdown, and one commuter said it took them two hours to get to Sydney Airport from Redfern.
Another commuter said Wynyard Station was getting "pushy" as people crammed onto a platform.
On Twitter, user @mochijoonie said she was going to be late for a new job.
Commuter Shaun Thomas said he was $95 out of pocket after having to catch a taxi from Central Station to Parramatta for a 12:30 appointment in order to sign a lease.
Helen Stasa said a normal 10-minute train ride from Strathfield to Redfern took 45 minutes this morning.
"The train was delayed the whole way to Redfern. It was stopping and starting, no announcements — nothing," she said
Ms Stasa called the delays "appalling".
"I live in Madrid most of the year and the transport system there is 1,000 times better than here.
"It's embarrassing, to be honest."
NSW Shadow Minister for Transport Jodi McKay slammed the "a serious lack of information about the cause of delays".
