Motorists in Montreal endured the most severe traffic congestion in the country this year, losing a staggering 63 hours to gridlock. This figure not only tops the national list but also ranks Montreal within the global top 30 for traffic delays, highlighting a significant urban mobility challenge.
A National Leader in Congestion
The data, reported on December 05, 2025, paints a clear picture of the daily struggle for commuters in Quebec's largest city. The 63 hours lost per driver over the course of the year translates to more than two and a half full days spent idling in traffic. This performance solidifies Montreal's unenviable position as the Canadian city with the worst traffic congestion, outpacing other major urban centres.
Global Context and Local Impact
Placing among the top 30 worst cities globally for traffic underscores the scale of the issue. This level of congestion has tangible consequences, affecting productivity, increasing fuel consumption and vehicle emissions, and contributing to driver stress. The problem coincides with other regional developments, such as the Quebec government's recent order for employees to return to the office, which may influence future traffic patterns.
Broader Transportation Landscape
The traffic report emerges amidst a series of other transport-related news items across Canada. These include service interruptions affecting the REM light rail network in Montreal, a semi-truck rollover closing parts of Highway 16, and a nationwide recall of over 30,000 SUVs and trucks. While these are separate incidents, they collectively point to the complex state of transportation infrastructure and safety.
The significant time lost by Montreal drivers serves as a crucial metric for policymakers and urban planners. Addressing this congestion will be vital for improving quality of life, economic efficiency, and environmental outcomes in the metropolitan region.
