Time to tackle train overcrowding as passengers have suffered enough
27 July 2017
Campaign for Better Transport responds to the Department of Transport’s (DfT) annual statistics concerning overcrowding on trains.
Lianna Etkind, Public Transport Campaigner, Campaign for Better Transport, said: “The latest statistics show that overcrowding continues to make passengers’ lives a misery. People are rightly angry that they pay more in fares year after year, but never get a seat, and have to stand crammed into someone else’s armpit. With such high levels of overcrowding, the Government cannot expect people to pay for yet another fares hike in January. The Government needs to freeze fares, while continuing to invest in more train carriages and additional services. Season ticket discounts for flexible workers would also help tackle overcrowding and make rail travel more affordable for the growing army of part time commuters.”
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For further information please contact Richard Watkins on 020 7566 6494 / 07984 773 468 or Richard.watkins@bettertransport.org.uk
Notes to Editors
- Read the Department of Transport’s annual train overcrowding statistics here
- Regulated fares are due to rise in January and current Government policy is to raise them by RPI+0. RPI (Retail Price Index) is forecast to rise by between 3.6 and 3.9 per cent. This increase will be the highest for 5 years. London Evening Standard
- Campaign for Better Transport is the UK’s leading authority on sustainable transport. We champion transport solutions that improve people’s lives and reduce environmental damage. Our campaigns push innovative, practical policies at local and national levels. Campaign for Better Transport Charitable Trust is a registered charity (1101929).