CN train derailment stopped rail traffic in Dorval for some time, no injuries reported

UPDATE Feb. 19: CN says crews worked through the night to clear the site of the derailment. “The derailed railcars have been cleared, and the team is undergoing a thorough inspection of track where the incident took place. Efforts to remove the 50-75 cm of snow that accumulated in the Montreal to Toronto corridor are on-going. CN continues to work closely with VIA to prioritize their traffic.”

A CN train derailment completely stopped rail traffic in Dorval for some time on Tuesday, but by afternoon, it began to gradually resume. There are no injuries reported or spills associated with this incident.

CN explains that a combination of extreme snowfall followed by a derailment in their Taschereau Yard in Montreal created congestion on CN’s network in the Montreal to Toronto corridor.

“The derailment was contained within CN’s yard and involved 12 railcars. No fires, leaks, or injuries to report.  We are working closely with VIA to prioritize their traffic as soon as possible,” wrote Ashley Michnowski, spokesperson for CN in a statement to CityNews. “We appreciate the public’s patience as we deal with this extreme weather event.”

As several of the VIA Rail trains were scheduled to operate subsequent routes, they have been forced to cancel the following services:

• Trains 31, 44, 84, and 87: Alternative transportation provided by bus or on the following trains.
• Trains 53, 63, 72, 82, 668: No alternative transportation available.

“VIA Rail and CN are working together to prioritize VIA Rail trains and get passengers moving again. Although the track is now partially accessible, this situation, beyond our control, will continue to cause significant delays,” writes Via Rail in a statement to CityNews. “VIA Rail sincerely apologizes for any inconvenience caused by this situation beyond our control.”

Passengers affected will be informed directly and train status is also available on Via’s website.