TTC Prepares for Rush Hour After Storm Disrupts Subway Services
The Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area experienced a historic winter storm that significantly impacted transportation services. On a recent Sunday, the storm delivered nearly 60 centimeters of snow, leading to widespread travel disruptions, including subway shutdowns and delayed flights. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) provided updates regarding its service on Monday following the storm.
TTC Transit Services Resuming After Winter Storm
On Monday morning, most subway services on Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth) were temporarily suspended on the west side. However, train operations resumed east from Islington Station. Services remained halted between Kipling and Islington stations and also between Woodbine and Kennedy stations. Line 1 (Yonge-University), although affected, was back in service by mid-morning. Meanwhile, the Finch West Light Rail Transit (LRT) line continues to be closed due to the weather.
Response from TTC Officials
TTC CEO Mandeep Lali referred to the storm as a “once-in-a-generation” event. He expressed gratitude to customers who dealt with the inconvenience of waiting for shuttle buses. “We will analyze our performance and identify gaps exposed by this snowfall,” he stated in a written statement.
Josh Colle, the TTC’s chief strategy and customer experience officer, noted that nearly 1,400 buses were operational, some deployed for additional capacity due to subway outages. Colle acknowledged the frustrating conditions for commuters but confirmed that buses, along with streetcars, were navigating the snow relatively well.
Strategic Measures for Future Storms
The TTC implemented key strategies to mitigate the impact of such storms. Vehicles were stored in tunnels overnight to prevent them from being trapped in open areas. Colle mentioned that over 600 heating devices were utilized to maintain critical subway infrastructure, ensuring that operations could continue without freezing issues.
GO Transit Also Affected by Weather
GO Transit experienced significant delays on some of its busiest routes, with services returning to normal later in the day. Minor slowdowns continued on the Lakeshore West and Lakeshore East lines, while surface routes saw some bus stops bypassed due to snow conditions. Passengers were advised to check for updates on any service changes.
Airport Operations There After Snowstorm
Toronto Pearson International Airport recorded a striking 46 centimeters of snowfall, which severely reduced its departure rate. Multiple flights were canceled or delayed, and airport officials predicted a “multi-day recovery” to restore normal operations.
Passengers were encouraged to confirm flight statuses with their airlines before heading to the airport. Duty Manager Andre Nadeau highlighted the need to clear the airfield and sought understanding from travelers impacted by delays.
Challenges for Travelers
One passenger reported being stranded on the tarmac for nearly four and a half hours before his flight was ultimately canceled. He described the chaotic scene at the airport, voicing frustration shared by many travelers. Despite the challenges, airline staff provided transportation and hotel accommodations for passengers waiting for the next available flights.
Looking Ahead
As public transit services in Toronto start to normalize, officials are committed to learning from the recent storm and ensuring better preparedness for future weather-related disruptions. With collaboration between the TTC, GO Transit, and airport services, the city aims to restore efficient operations for commuters and travelers.
