A staggering 70% of the train cars on Ottawa's Line 1 are currently out of service, prompting serious concerns among daily commuters. In a recent update from OC Transpo, it was reported that there have been minor improvements regarding bus and train operations; however, only about 30% of the Line 1 train cars are functioning, and approximately 5% of scheduled bus trips are being canceled.
The situation has compelled OC Transpo to reduce the frequency of Line 1 light rail services until further notice. This decision came after Rideau Transit Group (RTG), the maintenance contractor, identified a concerning issue known as "spalling" within the cartridge bearing assemblies that connect the axles to the wheels. This condition indicates that metal components are flaking off, which increases the risk of further cracking and potential system failures.
Under normal circumstances, during peak hours, Line 1 operates with 13 two-car trains. Presently, however, transit general manager Troy Charter noted that only four or five of these trains are running with both cars, resulting in significant overcrowding during certain times. Fortunately, he assured that while the trains are packed, the situation has not reached unsafe levels.
In response to the ongoing issues, OC Transpo is planning to increase train frequencies to accommodate more passengers. Starting Friday, trains will run every three to four minutes during peak hours, with schedules returning to every 10 minutes over the weekend. Currently, only 18 of the Line 1 train cars remain available for service, while 41 are undergoing necessary repairs due to the identified problems with their assemblies. This translates to a troubling lack of availability for about 70% of the fleet.
Importantly, some of these train cars are crucial as preparations continue for the extension of the light rail transit (LRT) system both east and west. Last fall, OC Transpo indicated that the opening of a link to Orléans was on track for completion by the end of March, but it remains unclear how these current assembly issues might impact that timeline, according to Charter.
To address the spalling issue, OC Transpo has requested RTG to replace any affected assemblies that have exceeded 100,000 kilometers in operation. This proactive step is essential to ensure the safety of the transit system. Despite comments from Alstom Americas' CEO, who stated that the problem is not critical, Charter emphasized the importance of thorough diligence given the recent derailments.
Replacing two axles takes approximately a day, and since each train is equipped with 10 axles, the maintenance schedule can vary widely based on usage. OC Transpo is prioritizing those units that only require the replacement of a single axle to expedite the process.
When asked about financial liability, Charter confirmed that OC Transpo has a performance-based contract with RTG, which obligates the contractor to maintain the trains to an acceptable standard. "We are holding them accountable for resolving this issue at their expense," he stated firmly.
In terms of bus service, OC Transpo is also facing challenges this month due to a shortage of operational buses. Some routes had to be canceled days in advance, while others were canceled unexpectedly, leaving passengers waiting in cold conditions. The aging bus fleet, requiring complex repairs, has contributed significantly to the current crisis, alongside a shortage of mechanics available to perform those repairs.
During the week of January 11, OC Transpo managed to deliver 95.1% of scheduled bus trips, although their target is 99.5%, typically achieving around 97.5%. Earlier this month, that reliability dipped as low as 90%.
To remedy the fleet shortages, OC Transpo is actively searching for used buses and exploring options beyond Ottawa for necessary repairs. While they have sent one bus out for repairs, the results will determine if more units will follow. Additionally, OC Transpo has procured 11 used diesel buses to mitigate fleet gaps while awaiting deliveries of new electric buses, which have been delayed for years.
Charter remarked, "We are casting a wide net in our search for reliable used buses across North America," stressing the need for careful selection to avoid repeating past mistakes with older vehicles that could worsen the current situation.
As the transit authority grapples with these pressing challenges, it raises important questions: How will OC Transpo ensure service reliability moving forward? What measures can be taken to prevent future crises in public transportation? Share your thoughts below!
