Transit Strike Paralyzes Montreal: 4,500 Workers Walk Off Job

UPDATE: Montreal is in chaos today as a historic transit strike has left the city’s bus and metro services completely paralyzed. Roughly 4,500 bus drivers, metro operators, and station employees have walked off the job, marking the first strike by the transit union in 38 years.

The disruption comes at a particularly critical time, coinciding with major sporting events including the Montreal Alouettes playoff game this afternoon and evening games featuring the Laval Rocket and the Montreal Canadiens. Fans, who typically rely on public transit to attend these events, are now scrambling for alternative transportation options.

Authorities have confirmed that while regular bus and metro services are halted, paratransit services will continue to operate throughout the day. However, the union representing maintenance workers is also set to strike, affecting service availability during most of November. Despite this, limited bus and metro operations are expected to resume during rush hours and late evenings, providing some relief for commuters.

The union representing bus drivers is pushing for further action, indicating plans to strike for an entire weekend later this month. The impact of this strike is significant, disrupting daily routines and travel plans for thousands of city residents.

As the situation develops, commuters are urged to seek alternative travel arrangements. The city is working to manage the fallout from this unprecedented strike, which highlights ongoing tensions between transit workers and management over working conditions and pay.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.