Service Interruption on the STM’s Orange Line
Service on the STM’s Orange Line was interrupted for about an hour between Berri-UQAM and Henri-Bourassa métro stations due to smoke near Rosemont station. The line went down around 12:30 p.m. and resumed service around 1:36 p.m., causing significant delays for commuters during the busy midday period.
According to the Montreal fire department, there was smoke present, but no fire was reported at the station. This information was confirmed by spokesperson William Murray, who stated, “While there was smoke, there was no fire at the station.” Such incidents can create panic among passengers, and the STM has protocols in place to handle emergencies.
In response to the situation, an STM representative commented, “In such situations, our protocols require us to proceed with emergency ventilation.” This indicates that the STM took necessary precautions to ensure the safety of its passengers and staff while addressing the smoke issue.
The STM has been a critical part of the community for over 245 years, providing essential public transportation services to the residents of Montreal. The reliability of the STM is crucial for many commuters who depend on the Orange Line for their daily travel.
In addition to the service interruption, the STM is currently focusing on hiring for its summer jobs program for 2026, offering hourly pay up to $33.75 CAD. Applications for these positions close as soon as March 11 and March 15 for some roles, indicating a proactive approach to staffing during the busy summer months.
At $33.75 per hour, a 40-hour work week would yield a gross pay of $1,350, totaling $16,200 over a 12-week period before deductions. The higher seasonal pay suggests that employers expect a tight supply of workers and are seeking commitment through the summer.
As the STM continues to manage its operations, observers will be watching closely to see how the organization addresses both the immediate concerns regarding service interruptions and the long-term staffing needs for the upcoming summer season. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further developments related to the smoke incident.
