OC Transpo provided an update on its bus and train issues on Friday, noting some improvements. However, only around 30% of Line 1 train cars are operational, with approximately 5% of scheduled bus trips not taking place.
This week, OC Transpo reduced Line 1 light rail service until further notice due to the detection of “spalling” in the cartridge bearing assemblies by maintainer Rideau Transit Group (RTG). This issue involves metal flaking off inside, increasing the risk of cracking and failure.
During peak periods, Line 1 typically has 13 two-car trains in operation, but currently, four or five of these trains are running with a single car. Despite the reduced service leading to crowded trains at times, interim transit general manager Troy Charter assured that the situation has not posed any safety concerns.
To accommodate more passengers, OC Transpo plans to increase train frequencies. Trains will run every three to four minutes during peak periods on Friday and revert to the usual service every 10 minutes over the weekend.
As of now, only 18 Line 1 train cars are in service, while 41 require attention to their problematic assemblies, leaving about 70% of the fleet unavailable. Charter mentioned the importance of having these vehicles operational for the upcoming LRT extension to the east and west.
Regarding the bus problems in January, OC Transpo had to scale back bus services due to a shortage caused by complex repairs and a lack of mechanics. The service has acknowledged challenges with its aging bus fleet affecting reliability.
OC Transpo is actively working to address the issues, including requesting RTG to replace assemblies with over 100,000 kilometers. The City is holding the contractor accountable for rectifying the problems at their own expense. Alstom is also redesigning the bearing assembly to address the issue.
Efforts are underway to source used buses to fill the gap in the fleet, with plans to send buses outside Ottawa for repairs and explore acquiring more used buses. The aim is to ensure that the buses are reliable and meet operational standards before deployment.
