Service on Montreal’s light-rail network has returned to normal following multiple disruptions on Wednesday morning. The initial interruption on the REM was confirmed just before 6 a.m., leading to a suspension of service between Brossard and Gare Centrale stations. An hour later, the service disruption extended to the Côte-de-Liesse station. Additionally, there was reduced service between Deux-Montagnes to Côte-de-Liesse and Anse-à-l’Orme to Côte-de-Liesse.
By 9 a.m., service had resumed between Côte-de-Liesse and Gare Centrale, although it remained suspended between Brossard and Gare Centrale. Approximately thirty minutes later, service gradually resumed across the network. The REM attributed the service disruptions on the three branches to an “equipment breakdown on track.”
However, at 10:15 a.m., another service suspension was reported on the REM’s website, this time between Panama and Gare Centrale stations. This incident was caused by a separate event where a truck struck the underside of an overpass used by the REM near Gare Centrale. Service was restored network-wide about an hour later.
Transport Minister Benoit Charette expressed concern over the recurrent outages on the REM and their impact on commuters. He emphasized the importance of Pulsar, the operator, providing a clear explanation of the outage causes and outlining preventive measures.
To assist users during service interruptions, the REM’s website offers a tool that suggests alternative travel options such as shuttles, buses, and other transit services.