Home / Disasters and Accidents / Repentigny Train Derailment: Track Deficiencies Cited
Repentigny Train Derailment: Track Deficiencies Cited
16 Jul
Summary
- Several deficiencies found on railway track where train derailed.
- Missing rail anchors and skewed ties noted by investigators.
- City requests permanent and temporary train speed reductions.
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) has indicated that a train derailment in Repentigny, Quebec, on July 5 was linked to "several deficiencies" in the railway track. Preliminary observations shared by the TSB revealed missing rail anchors and skewed ties on the track segment between Mile 118 and Mile 121.
These findings prompted the TSB to suggest that Transport Canada verify the track's integrity to ensure safety. In response to the incident, CN Rail has since rebuilt a 750-meter section of the track, resuming operations at significantly reduced speeds.
The City of Repentigny has also taken action, requesting that the federal Transport Ministry consider reducing train speeds, both temporarily until the investigation concludes and permanently within urban areas. The TSB's investigation is ongoing and has been classified as significant, suggesting potential for new safety lessons.
Fortunately, the derailment involved 172 wagons, including 13 carrying dangerous goods residue, but no hazardous substances were leaked, and no injuries or fires were reported. Transport Canada inspectors are monitoring CN Rail's response.
