GO Train Derailment Disrupts Evening Commute: Essential Details
A partial derailment of a GO train near Union Station on Monday has led to significant service disruptions throughout the day, according to Metrolinx. The incident occurred at approximately 8:16 a.m. as the train was departing Union Station. The rear of the train derailed, impacting a track switch and triggering signal malfunctions.
Impact on Services
The derailment has caused widespread delays for commuters. Metrolinx indicated that service disruptions could extend into the evening. In response, afternoon train service for GO Transit has been reduced due to limited track availability.
Current Service Levels
As of the 4:20 p.m. update, the following service levels are in effect:
- Lakeshore East Line: 30-minute service
- Lakeshore West Line: 30-minute service
- Kitchener Line: 30-minute service; no Bramalea turnbacks, express trains making all stops
- UP Express: Operating on a 30-minute frequency
- Milton Line: Four hourly outbound trips from Union starting at 4:10 p.m. from Track 10
- Barrie Line: Hourly bidirectional service
- Richmond Hill Line: 60-minute homebound service
- Stouffville Line: 60-minute homebound service
Alternate Transit Options
To assist commuters, extra TTC buses are operating alongside the 509 Harbourfront streetcar for those heading to Exhibition GO. In addition, extra trains on subway Line 1 are available to connect Union Station with Downsview Park GO.
Repairs and Delays
GO Transit crews are currently engaged in repairs as delays have extended through the morning into the afternoon. The agency initially estimated the disruption would last up to two hours, but all lines passing through Union Station remain affected.
Subway and Other Services
Subway services have also experienced disruptions, particularly on Line 1, which faced a service halt between St. Andrew and Spadina stations due to an injury on the tracks. Although service has since resumed, the delays compounded the challenges for those travelling during peak hours.
Commuter Challenges
Many commuters reported prolonged travel times due to the combined impact of train delays and incidents on the subway. Some individuals experienced more than double their usual commute. For example, Kris Pathmanathan’s typical 20-minute journey from Scarborough extended to an hour and a half due to the disruptions.
Others shared similar experiences. Bianca Salazar, who was returning to work after a year on maternity leave, encountered significant delays that made her nearly two hours late.
Conclusion
The GO train derailment has profoundly impacted the Monday commute for many. Commuters are advised to allow extra travel time and consider using alternative transit routes during this period of disruption. Continued updates from Metrolinx can provide further insights into the evolving situation.
