Public transit is fare-free today (B.C. Day) as part of TransLink’s gesture of apology and customer appreciation following last month’s incidents of major SkyTrain service disruptions.
Both the Expo and Millennium Lines shut down for extensive periods during two weekdays, causing a shutdown of the system. Some passengers were stuck inside stalled trains for hours and even resorted to prying open train doors and walking on the tracks.
However, TransLink has cautioned the public to not enter the tracks without the supervision of SkyTrain attendants as it is extremely dangerous and can cause further delays. Even during a system shutdown, the third rail could still be live with electricity and trains could also begin to move without any notice.
TransLink has ordered an independent investigation over both system shutdowns, although the causes that led to the shutdowns are unrelated. A report is scheduled for release in October and will include recommendations on what can be done to prevent or react to similar service disruptions.
The reaction to Free Transit Day on B.C. Day was mixed. Some were unhappy that it is held on a statutory holiday when less people can benefit from using fare-free transit. Others with monthly FareCard transit passes also went on to social media to voice their displeasure.
Featured Image: Canada Line via Shutterstock
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