GO Transit Implements Special Schedule Following Train Derailment Near Union Station
Commuters across the Greater Toronto Area are facing continued disruptions as GO Transit operates on a special schedule following a significant train derailment near Union Station. The incident, which occurred on Monday morning, has created ripple effects throughout the regional transit network, impacting thousands of daily riders.
Ongoing Service Disruptions and Modified Operations
GO Transit has confirmed that a modified service plan is now in effect to support recovery efforts after a slow-moving train came off the tracks just west of Union Station at 8:16 a.m. on Monday. According to transit officials, the derailed train made contact with a track switch, causing signal problems and significantly reducing train movement through Canada's busiest railway hub.
Metrolinx CEO Michael Lindsay provided updates via social media, noting that crews successfully returned the derailed train to the tracks late Monday evening. However, the aftermath continues to affect operations. "We have confirmed that we will be running a modified service tomorrow which solves for the maximum number of train trips on our busiest lines at peak periods," Lindsay stated in a LinkedIn post.
What Commuters Need to Know
The transit authority is urging all riders to check for updates before traveling and to allow extra time for their journeys. A special schedule has been implemented "to support disabled train recovery efforts," according to official communications from GO Transit.
The service modifications affect multiple lines:
- Lakeshore East and West lines: 60-minute service outside of 15- to 30-minute peak morning and evening periods
- UP Express: 30-minute service between Union Station and Toronto Pearson International Airport
- Barrie line: 30-minute morning and evening peak service only
- Kitchener line: 60-minute service outside of 30-minute peak periods
- Milton line: 30-minute morning and evening peak service
- Richmond Hill line: 60-minute morning and evening peak service
- Stouffville line: 30-minute morning and evening peak service
Recovery Efforts and Timeline
Crews worked through Monday and into the night to address the situation, and repair work continues on the impacted section of track. Transit officials emphasize that they must restore and thoroughly test the signal system before full GO train service can resume.
The derailment initially caused a temporary suspension of UP Express service on Monday, adding to the transportation challenges in the region. While Tuesday's disruptions are not expected to be as severe as Monday's, transit authorities acknowledge that operations are not yet back to normal.
Commuters are advised to monitor GO Transit's official website and social media channels for the latest updates on service restoration and schedule adjustments.
