Whether it’s moving bulk goods or passengers, rail Canada has an extensive network that supports economic growth and provides efficient passenger transportation. In 2010, rail transportation in Canada accounted for more than $10 billion. The railway industry is regulated by the federal government and provincial legislation. The railway industry in Canada has more than 46,000 kilometres of track. This is broken down into three main categories: passenger rail, intermodal and freight.
In the last decade, the Canadian railway industry has invested more than $2.3 billion in capital investments. The website investment was primarily directed towards improving the reliability and efficiency of the rail network.
CPR and CN have also increased their focus on safety management systems and have launched new safety initiatives. They have also increased their consultations with regulators. In 2010, the rail companies collectively employed 29,193 people. In 2010, rail carload traffic and revenues were both up by 13.9% and 8.7% respectively. The rail companies have also been working to reduce emissions. In 2010, the two companies’ emissions were at their lowest since 2005, mainly because of improved energy efficiency.
As the Canadian economy continues to grow, the rail industry is moving forward with plans for two new transcontinental railways. One of the new lines will connect Quebec City with Montreal and Ottawa. The other will connect London with Windsor and Quebec City. The two new lines are part of a larger initiative called the “Prince Rupert-Fort Frances Corridor.”
In December 2010, the Minister of State (Transport) issued a report on the Rail Freight Service Review. The three-person panel was charged with analyzing the current rail freight services in Canada. They used quantitative analysis and conducted extensive consultations. This included receiving written submissions from stakeholders. The panel recommended that the government harmonize rail regulatory regimes to improve safety and reliability. The government subsequently enacted legislation to implement this recommendation.
The Rail Freight Service Review is part of a larger initiative to improve the safety, reliability and efficiency of Canada’s rail-based logistics system. The government will eventually establish a new state enterprise to oversee the HFR. The new state enterprise will be a subsidiary of VIA Rail Canada. The new state enterprise will report to Transport Canada.
VIA Rail Canada has received seven safety awards from the Railway Association of Canada. VIA Rail is a passenger rail service that transports passengers safely between Canadian cities. The company has also developed a social media presence and uses social media forums to interact with customers. It has also improved on board internet access through Wi-Fi. VIA Rail has also launched new marketing initiatives and service agreements. In 2010, VIA Rail experienced a 3.2% increase in passenger revenues, while reporting a loss of $261.5 million.
VIA Rail Canada operates a regional system that offers daily departures from major cities. The company also operates an intercity network that includes services from Ottawa, Montreal and Toronto. In 2010, the company completed infrastructure upgrades in Montreal, Ottawa and Smiths Falls. The company also increased the number of Montreal-Toronto trains. VIA Rail has also announced new partnerships with GO Transit in Toronto and the Agence metropolitaine Transportation Agency in Montreal.