After experiencing multiple disruptions on Wednesday morning, Montreal’s light-rail network is now operating smoothly again. The REM, operated by Pulsar, will address the situation in a news conference scheduled for 3 p.m.
The initial interruption occurred just before 6 a.m., leading to the suspension of service between Brossard and Gare Centrale stations. Subsequently, the service disruption expanded to include the Côte-de-Liesse station, with service also limited 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 entire network.
The REM attributed the disruptions on the three branches to an “equipment breakdown on track.” Another service suspension was reported on the REM’s website at 10:15 a.m., this time between Panama and Gare Centrale stations. This interruption was caused by a separate incident where a truck collided with the underside of an overpass used by the REM near Gare Centrale. Service was restored across the network about an hour later.
Transport Minister Benoit Charette expressed his concern regarding the ongoing outages on the REM and their impact on commuters. He emphasized the need for Pulsar to thoroughly explain the causes of these disruptions and outline preventive measures for the future.
To assist commuters during service interruptions, the REM’s website provides a tool that suggests travel alternatives such as shuttles, buses, and other transit options.