Montreal residents who depend on public transportation are advised to prepare for potential disruptions as STM maintenance employees are preparing to strike once again beginning on Monday.
The strike, scheduled to run from September 22 to October 5, may cause inconvenience, particularly outside of peak travel times, unless a resolution is reached between the involved parties.
Here’s what you should know if you’re a commuter:
During the strike period, bus and metro services will be limited on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Operations will be restricted to peak hours, running from 6:15 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. to 6 p.m. Services will resume at 11 p.m. nightly until closing time.
On Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, regular schedules will be maintained, and adapted transit services will operate normally.
The STM has assured that paratransit services will continue to operate during the strike, and the lost and found counter at Berri-UQAM station will remain accessible via phone. Restricted metro hours will be in effect for in-person visits to the counter.
In related news, the Syndicat du transport de Montréal, representing over 2,400 employees, is seeking a 25% wage increase over a five-year period. The STM argues for more flexibility in scheduling and subcontracting due to financial challenges.
To assist commuters in navigating potential disruptions, the STM has increased signage and audio announcements in stations. Departure times for the last trains during strike days will be clearly displayed. Commuters are encouraged to plan ahead by checking the reduced schedule on the STM website.
This strike follows a previous walkout in June, which left many passengers seeking alternative transportation options.
