Montreal, QC – A major part of the Green Line on the Montreal Metro has been shut down indefinitely, causing disruptions for commuters and raising concerns about the safety of the city’s public transportation system.
The shutdown, which was announced by the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) on Monday, affects the section of the Green Line between the Angrignon and Lionel-Groulx stations. This decision was made after an inspection revealed significant damage to the tracks and infrastructure in the area.
According to STM spokesperson Philippe Déry, the damage was caused by a combination of factors, including the age of the infrastructure and the harsh winter weather. He also stated that the shutdown was necessary to ensure the safety of passengers and to allow for necessary repairs to be made.
The closure has caused major disruptions for commuters, with many having to find alternative routes or modes of transportation. The STM has set up shuttle buses to transport passengers between the affected stations, but this has resulted in longer travel times and increased congestion on the roads.
The closure has also raised concerns about the overall state of Montreal’s public transportation system. This is not the first time that the Green Line has experienced issues, with previous closures and delays due to maintenance and repairs. Some critics are calling for more investment in the city’s infrastructure to prevent these types of disruptions in the future.
In response to these concerns, Déry stated that the STM is committed to ensuring the safety and reliability of the metro system. He also mentioned that the STM has a long-term plan in place to modernize and upgrade the infrastructure, but these projects take time and significant funding.
In the meantime, the STM is urging commuters to plan ahead and allow for extra travel time while the Green Line remains closed. They are also reminding passengers to follow all safety protocols and to report any suspicious or concerning issues to STM staff.
The STM has not provided a timeline for when the Green Line will reopen, stating that it will depend on the extent of the repairs needed. In the meantime, commuters will have to adjust to the disruptions and hope for a swift resolution to the issue.