BROSSARD — Commuters between the South Shore and downtown Montréal faced a disrupted morning on Wednesday after the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) reported an equipment failure that halted service between Brossard and Gare Centrale.
What happened and when
The REM said the interruption began at about 6 a.m. and affected trains in all directions on multiple branches. The network initially reported the problem as an “equipment failure on the track” at Gare Centrale and Côte‑de‑Liesse, which led to suspended service on the South Shore branch and reduced or delayed service on other branches.
| Time (Aug. 19, 2026) | Event |
|---|---|
| ~6:00 a.m. | Service interruption begins between Gare Centrale and Brossard |
| ~8:20 a.m. | Partial recovery: trains restart between downtown and Deux‑Montagnes and L’Anse‑à‑l’Orme |
| ~9:30 a.m. | REM reports service is gradually resuming across the network |
Alternatives offered
During the interruption, the REM activated shuttle bus service to carry passengers between affected stations. The system’s website also offers a trip‑planning tool and points riders to alternate routes in the event of disruptions.
- Shuttle buses were deployed for the South Shore link.
- Partial train service resumed first on the downtown to Deux‑Montagnes and L’Anse‑à‑l’Orme branches.
- Full network recovery was reported as progressing gradually by mid‑morning.
"08-19-2026 at 8:40 am Service interruption between Gare Centrale and Brossard stations, in all directions. Reduced service between Gare Centrale, Deux‑Montagnes and Anse‑à‑l'Orme stations, in all directions. Cause: Equipment failure on the track. An update will follow around…" — Réseau express métropolitain (@REM_infoservice)
Impact on Brossard commuters
For riders boarding at the REM’s South Shore stations in Brossard, the interruption came at peak morning travel time. The availability of shuttle buses provided a ground alternative but can add travel time and uncertainty for people commuting to downtown Montréal for work, appointments or connections to other transit networks.
By about 8:20 a.m. the REM reported partial restoration of service between downtown and the Deux‑Montagnes and L’Anse‑à‑l’Orme branches, with a broader, gradual return across the network reported by 9:30 a.m. Riders were advised to consult the REM website or social feeds for updates and to use the trip‑planning tool for alternatives.
What to watch next
Officials did not provide an immediate estimate for when full, regular service would be restored systemwide. Commuters should expect residual delays while the REM continues checks and reintroduces trains on affected sections.
For Brossard residents, the episode is a reminder of the importance of contingency planning for peak‑hour travel. The REM’s use of shuttle buses and online tools aims to reduce disruption, but riders should allow extra time and monitor official channels for the latest information.
WE NEWS will continue to follow updates from the REM and local transit partners and report any further developments affecting South Shore service.
