Water main break shuts down stretch of Papineau Avenue during Montreal rush hour
Posted February 12, 2026 8:26 am.
Last Updated February 12, 2026 11:15 am.
A water main break forced the complete closure of a stretch of Papineau Avenue during the Thursday morning rush hour, disrupting traffic in the city’s downtown core.
Papineau was closed in both directions between René-Lévesque Boulevard and Sainte-Catherine Street while crews carried out repairs.
Papineau northbound reopened to traffic about three hours later.
Municipal officials said the water flow was brought under control and it was being redirected into a catch basin.
City workers were on scene along with Montreal police, who were managing traffic and setting up detours. De Lorimier Avenue northbound was also closed in that area.
Police say the existing closure will remain in place for an undetermined period while repairs are completed.
Drivers are being asked to avoid the sector.
