Metro Montreal Strike Causes Major Transit Disruptions: What Commuters Need to Know About Reduced Hours, STM Dispute, and Alternative Options
The metro Montreal network is facing one of its most significant disruptions in recent years as the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) employees continue their strike action. With service heavily reduced on key weekdays and thousands of commuters left scrambling for alternatives, the city’s reliance on public transit has come into sharp focus.
Why the STM Montréal Workers Are on Strike
The strike began on September 22, 2025, after months of stalled negotiations between STM Montréal and the union representing maintenance staff. The core demands include:
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A wage increase of about 25% over the next few years.
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Limits on outsourcing maintenance and service contracts.
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Improved working conditions for frontline staff.
Management has countered with a 12.5% increase spread over five years, stating that the union’s proposals are financially unsustainable for STM Montréal operations.
Metro Montreal Service Schedule During the Strike
The strike does not completely shut down the metro Montreal system, but it does significantly limit when commuters can travel. The restrictions apply only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, while service runs normally on other days.
| Day of the Week | Metro Service Status | Key Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Reduced | 6:30–9:30, 14:45–17:45, 23:00–close |
| Wednesday | Reduced | 6:30–9:30, 14:45–17:45, 23:00–close |
| Friday | Reduced | 6:30–9:30, 14:45–17:45, 23:00–close |
| Tuesday | Normal | Regular STM schedule |
| Thursday | Normal | Regular STM schedule |
| Saturday | Normal | Regular STM schedule |
| Sunday | Normal | Regular STM schedule |
Stations close progressively after the final scheduled train departs. This means a missed train could result in commuters being locked out until the next service window.
Impact on Daily Life and Commuters’ Stories
The reduced metro Montreal hours have created chaos for many residents. One striking case involved a cancer patient who, after missing a train by one minute, was forced to walk two hours to reach his chemotherapy appointment. Without the financial means to take a taxi, he highlighted how essential STM Montréal services are for vulnerable citizens.
Other passengers have reported confusion, with several arriving at normally busy stations such as Mont-Royal and Laurier only to find locked doors in the middle of the day. Sports fans are also concerned about attending evening games, as the window between 17:45 and 23:00 leaves a gap in service.
Horaires métro Montréal and How to Stay Updated
To avoid confusion, STM Montréal urges passengers to consult official updates daily. Information is available through:
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STM’s official website with real-time updates.
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Station announcements and digital boards.
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The STM Montréal social media accounts for urgent alerts.
For ticket holders, passes and multi-ride tickets remain valid and unaffected during the strike. However, riders must plan carefully around the shortened horaires métro Montréal to avoid being stranded.
Transport en commun Montréal Alternatives During the Strike
With many commuters unable to rely fully on the metro Montreal system, other transport en commun Montréal options are gaining importance:
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Cycling and walking, especially for shorter distances.
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Ride-sharing and carpooling initiatives gaining popularity.
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City bus services, which are also affected but less severely than the metro.
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Planning routes via the Réseau express métropolitain (REM), which is gradually expanding and provides additional connectivity.
Réseau express métropolitain (REM) and Future Transit Plans
While the strike focuses attention on STM Montréal, the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) represents the city’s long-term strategy to reduce reliance on the traditional metro system. The REM, an automated light metro, is designed to link downtown Montreal with suburbs and the airport.
Ongoing discussions about previously abandoned metro projects, such as the potential revival of the 3, 6, or 7 lines, show how critical the expansion of transport en commun Montréal is to meet the needs of a growing population.
Grève métro Montréal: What’s Next
The grève métro Montréal is scheduled to continue until October 5, 2025, unless a breakthrough occurs in negotiations. Until then, commuters are advised to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and explore all available alternatives.
The coming weeks will be a test not only of patience for passengers but also of the city’s ability to balance budgetary realities with the essential role of public transit in everyday life.
