A new bill is trying to move “fast trains” from a European ideal into a Canadian reality.
Driving the news: Canada’s passenger train network is notoriously plagued with delays. But a proposed law would force railway owners and operators to prioritize passenger-filled trains over freight trains in any scheduling conflict — or pay a $250,000 fine for every infraction.
- The law’s scope could extend beyond services like Via Rail, Canadian Pacific, and Canadian National and apply to U.S. and regional operations like Metrolinx.
Catch-up: Across North America, rail networks are predominantly privately owned and designed for freight transport, with passenger trains often operating on ‘rented' tracks from private companies. This priority system generally leads to lots of frustrated commuters.
Why it matters: If passed, the bill could potentially reshape Canada's entire rail transport landscape, aligning it with global standards where passenger convenience is paramount — and address growing criticism from passengers who are consistently impacted by delays.
- Metrolinx's $13.5 billion project to revamp the Go Train network includes dedicated tracks and electrification, marking a larger shift towards prioritizing passenger rail.
Big picture: Meanwhile, the federal government is working on a $12 billion high-frequency rail upgrade for Via Rail's route between Toronto and Quebec City, which will separate freight and passenger trains, promising punctuality and enhanced speeds up to 200 km/hr. —SB