MTR Mälartåg, which took over and started running the commuter train service from Transdev in June 12, is currently struggling with staff shortages and canceled trains.
– We have had a pretty good start with high punctuality and not so many canceled trains, says Niklas Ekström, communications manager at MTR Mälartåg.
But the situation for the train operator is anything but good, right now. On Sunday, four trains were canceled completely and about 15 departures between Gävle and Uppsala were replaced by buses.
The problem with canceled trains is due to staff shortages; that there has been no preparedness for those who are now going on holiday.
– The problems are partly linked to a holiday planning that was added before we took over.
But having staff on site during the holidays – that should have been the first thing you secured when taking over?
– Yes, of course an important detail. At the same time, we must follow collective agreements. The staff must have their statutory holiday.
What are you doing about it?
– We have tried to get people to work extra, or sell their holiday. We try to quickly train train drivers.
How long can the problems with canceled trains continue?
– We work all the time to try to get drivers in, and the goal is for everyone to arrive as best they can. We have installed information hosts who will be able to help travelers on site. We can not solve everything at once and we will probably see canceled trains this week as well, even if the situation looks to be better, says Nikas Ekström.