VIA Rail Faces Unprecedented Operational Crisis
In a shocking turn of events, VIA Rail's on-time performance has plummeted to a staggering 30% in the first quarter of 2025, down from a commendable 72% the previous year. This drastic decline is primarily attributed to Canadian National Railway's (CN) arbitrary speed restrictions on the newly introduced Venture trains, which are now causing unacceptable delays of up to 45 minutes. As reported by Railway Age, these disruptions not only degrade the quality of service but also threaten the revitalization of rail travel post-pandemic.
Passenger Trust Erodes Amid Rising Delays
VIA Rail's CEO Mario Péloquin has publicly acknowledged the distress inflicted upon passengers, apologizing for the service disruptions during a recent speech at the TRACCS Rail Day in Toronto. The 3% decline in ridership, marking the first drop since the pandemic recovery began, signals a growing crisis in public trust. As highlighted by Railway News, the business travel sector, in particular, is suffering greatly from these delays, which could prove costly in efforts to win back these vital customers.
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Financial Burdens Mount for VIA Rail
The financial implications of this operational downturn are painfully clear. While operating costs per available seat mile decreased by 8.2% to 51.7 cents and overall cost recovery improved by 11.5%, the ongoing service interruptions are driving up costs related to travel credits and points for passengers affected by delays. According to VIA Rail's press release, the total costs associated with compensating passengers whose trains are more than an hour late are accumulating at an alarming rate.
Political Action and the Need for Accountability
Transport Action continues to urge Transport Canada to address the pressing safety issues related to grade crossing warning times, advocating for a resolution that would ensure fair treatment for VIA Rail. This situation is not merely a logistical nightmare but a fundamental civil rights issue, as reliable public transportation is essential for equitable access to mobility. The ongoing legal battle between VIA Rail and CN over these speed restrictions, as reported by Trains, emphasizes the urgent need for accountability from freight owners who wield disproportionate control over passenger rail services.
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Hope for Recovery with New Fleet
Despite the current turmoil, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon. The final deliveries of the new Venture trains are expected to be completed this summer, allowing VIA Rail to phase out older, less reliable equipment. If political leaders rally around this initiative and provide the necessary support, VIA Rail could restore its operational integrity and reclaim its position as a cornerstone of Canadian public transport. The potential for improved performance and increased ridership could lead to a significant reduction in per-passenger subsidies, revolutionizing the financial landscape of the Crown corporation.
