Uber, one of the leading ride-sharing companies, has stated that it will not be able to fill the significant void in transit service if Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) workers decide to go on strike.
The possibility of a TTC strike has been looming as contract negotiations between the union representing TTC workers and the transit agency have reached an impasse. The union, Amalgamated Transit Union Local 113, has been in a legal strike position since April 17, but has not yet taken any action.
In a statement to CTV News, Uber spokesperson Kayla Whaling said, “While we understand the potential impact of a TTC strike on commuters, Uber is not a replacement for public transit. We simply do not have the capacity to fill the massive gap in transit service that would result from a TTC strike.”
Whaling also pointed out that Uber’s services are not designed to handle the high volume of commuters that rely on the TTC every day. She added that Uber’s drivers are not trained or equipped to handle the demands of public transit, such as accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
The TTC carries an average of 1.7 million passengers per day, and a strike would leave a significant number of people without a reliable mode of transportation. While ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft have become popular alternatives for short trips, they are not equipped to handle the same volume of passengers as the TTC.
In the event of a TTC strike, Uber has stated that it will continue to operate as usual, but it cannot guarantee that there will be enough drivers to meet the increased demand. This could result in longer wait times and surge pricing, making it difficult for commuters to rely on ride-sharing as a viable option.
The TTC and the union are set to meet with a conciliator on May 7 in an attempt to reach a new contract agreement. If an agreement is not reached, the union will have to give 72 hours’ notice before any job action can take place.
In the meantime, Uber is urging commuters to make alternative transportation plans in case of a strike. The company also encourages the TTC and the union to come to a resolution that will not disrupt the daily lives of Torontonians who rely on public transit.
