Ottawa City Council has issued a directive to OC Transpo, mandating a thorough safety audit to investigate the spalling issues affecting the O-Train system. This decision comes in response to significant technical complications that have led to the removal of 41 train cars from service, disrupting public transit operations across the city.
Council Motion and Audit Timeline
The motion, introduced by Councillor David Hill and seconded by Councillor Glen Gower, chair of the transit committee, requires OC Transpo's chief safety officer to initiate the audit promptly once full train service is restored. The findings must be presented to the transit committee within four months of the audit's commencement. If full service is not restored by the end of September, or if OC Transpo deems it unlikely, staff are instructed to submit a detailed report to council and the auditor general. This report should outline a completion timeline and address all known issues, including spalling and other technical complications on Line 1.
Understanding the Spalling Problem
Spalling refers to the flaking of metal surfaces inside the cartridge bearing assemblies on the train axles. As explained by OC Transpo interim general manager Troy Charter, these flakes contaminate the grease, hindering smooth bearing rotation. This degradation can escalate, potentially leading to bearing failure and compromising train safety. The Rideau Transit Group identified this issue in January, prompting OC Transpo to take 41 train cars out of service for inspection and repairs.
Current Service Status and Impact
As of the most recent update on February 20, only 21 train cars are available for service, with 38 out of service due to spalling and other maintenance requirements. Initially, only 18 cars were available after the issue was identified, and since then, only three have been returned to service. Full service on Line 1 requires 26 train cars during peak periods to operate 13 double-car trains. Currently, Line 1 is maintaining a three- to four-minute frequency during peak times, while Lines 2 and 4 remain unaffected by the spalling problem.
Auditor General's Role
The council motion also requests Auditor General Nathalie Gougeon to consider prioritizing an agile audit of the LRT system. This audit would commence after OC Transpo submits its findings, provided the auditor general believes her office can add further value to the investigation. This step aims to ensure comprehensive oversight and accountability in addressing the transit system's technical challenges.
The directive underscores the city's commitment to public safety and reliable transit services, as Ottawa grapples with ongoing maintenance issues that have strained the O-Train network. With no set timeline for full service restoration, the audit represents a critical effort to diagnose and resolve the spalling concerns, ultimately aiming to restore confidence in the city's light rail transit system.
