A recent discovery of issues with the wheel assemblies on the Line 1 LRT vehicles in Ottawa has prompted OC Transpo to reduce the number of cars in operation. This may lead to increased congestion on trains and platforms during peak travel times.
In a communication from OC Transpo’s interim general manager, Troy Charter, it was revealed that “spalling,” which occurs when flakes detach from the metal surface inside the axle bearing, was detected on several cartridge bearing assemblies. These assemblies connect the axle to the wheel, enabling it to rotate while supporting the train’s weight.
Charter emphasized that if left unattended, the spalling could result in cracks and bearing malfunction. To err on the side of caution, the city is withdrawing train cars with bearings that have traveled 100,000 kilometers.
Commencing Wednesday evening, Line 1 will run a mix of single- and double-car trains while maintaining existing frequencies. Normally, the trains consist of two cars. OC Transpo stated that this altered service will persist until the bearing issue is resolved, cautioning passengers about potential crowding during peak hours.
Expressing his concern, Charter mentioned during a virtual press briefing that while Line 1 trains will generally have sufficient space throughout the day, some passengers may encounter delays during peak periods due to crowding. He noted that there is no definite timeline for resolving the current problem.
Typically, Line 1 operates 13 two-car trains during peak hours. However, a few of these trains will now operate as single cars at the same frequency. Charter clarified that there are no plans to introduce R1 replacement bus service at present due in part to a shortage of available buses caused by an aging fleet.
Notably, previous instances of wheel assembly failures led to a derailment in 2021 and a prolonged shutdown of the LRT system in 2023. Charter specified that the recent defect is distinct from the one that caused those prior incidents.
In response to the situation, Kitchissippi Councillor Jeff Leiper, a member of the city’s transit committee, described the shortage of buses and the latest LRT disruption as indicative of significant challenges within the transit system.
Laura Shantz, representing the Ottawa Transit Riders advocacy group, expressed disappointment over the setback faced by Ottawa’s troubled LRT system. She praised OC Transpo’s efforts to maintain Line 1 frequency but highlighted that the ongoing disruptions are disheartening, emphasizing the need for lasting solutions to enhance reliability and prevent future issues.
