Technical Issue Causes Major Disruption on Montreal's REM Network
The Réseau express métropolitain (REM) experienced significant service disruptions on Wednesday, with a technical problem slowing down the entire automated light rail network and forcing the complete closure of the Édouard-Montpetit station. This latest incident adds to the ongoing service challenges that have plagued the system since its inauguration.
Network-Wide Slowdown and Station Closure
REM operators confirmed through their official social media channels that service at Édouard-Montpetit station has been suspended in all directions, while operations across the entire network continue to operate at reduced speeds. The disruption occurred during the morning commute on January 28, 2026, creating significant inconvenience for passengers relying on Montreal's newest public transportation system.
In a statement posted at 7:47 a.m., the REM information service account announced: "No service at Édouard-Montpetit station in all directions. Service remains slowed across the network." The announcement provided no specific details about the nature of the technical issue or which components of the automated system were affected.
Uncertain Timeline for Resolution
Perhaps most frustrating for commuters, REM operators have not provided any estimate regarding how long the service disruptions might continue. This lack of timeline information leaves passengers uncertain about when normal service might resume, forcing many to seek alternative transportation options during the morning rush hour.
The Édouard-Montpetit station, located in the Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce borough, serves as a crucial connection point for students, faculty, and staff traveling to the Université de Montréal campus, as well as residents of the surrounding neighborhoods. Its complete closure represents a significant disruption to daily routines in this busy sector of Montreal.
Continuing Pattern of Service Challenges
This incident represents the latest in a series of operational challenges for the REM system, which began full service on the Deux-Montagnes line in November 2025. While the automated light rail network promised to revolutionize Montreal's public transportation infrastructure, these recurring technical issues have raised questions about system reliability during its initial operational phase.
The REM's technical team is presumably working to diagnose and resolve the problem, but without a public timeline for restoration of normal service, passengers remain in limbo. Commuters are advised to check the REM's official communication channels for updates and consider alternative transportation routes until the technical issues are fully resolved.
