Auckland Transport: Take Note
Saw this via my Twitter feed a few moments ago:
Fare evaders allowed to do a runner
Michelle Griffin
Yarra Trams has ordered its inspectors not to pursue fleeing or aggressive fare evaders after a spate of attacks.
In an internal Yarra Trams memo obtained by 3AW, dated March 2013, ticket inspectors are told they:
- Must not block the path of, or attempt to physically detain a person who attempts to walk/run away.
- Must always maintain a safe distance between themselves and a person being spoken to – if possible.
- Must not surround or corner any person being spoken to regarding an offence under the Act.
The edict was issued after 10 assaults on ticket inspectors on trams between January and March this year. According to a Yarra Trams spokesman, this is “slightly higher” than the number of assaults at the same time last year, and resulted in 15 minor injuries, such as sprains and bruises.
The edict effectively ensures that those who refuse to give their name and address and instead flee cannot be detained or fined.
This comes just as Public Transport Victoria orders an increase in tram patrols by inspectors, in an attempt to cut fare evasion to 7 per cent across the public transport network.
There have been several aggressive confrontations between inspectors and passengers reported in recent years.
This is happening in Melbourne while we have this per Campbell Live: “SERIOUSLY AUCKLAND TRANSPORT?” that I covered recently. No wonder why Councillor Mike Lee is jumping up and down red and blue in the face. But in acknowledgement and balance: Dr Lester Levy of Auckland Transport is actively working on this situation – a man I can trust as a ratepayer to sort what is best for both AT/Rail and the city (AUCKLAND TRANSPORT TO RE-THINK STRATEGY).
But Auckland Transport – take note of Melbourne please SO WE CAN AVOID Melbourne’s situation…
Talking Southern Auckland 