An eastbound CN train derailed near the Pickering GO train station, and it delayed the afternoon commute on the Lakeshore East line.
GO Transit said Tuesday that one line has been opened up (see the GO service updates page for details), but there will be no stops at the Pickering station. Instead, passengers were to go to the Ajax station where they would be bused back.
Durham Regional Police asked commuters to remove their cars from the parking lot so that heavy equipment can be brought in to help clean up the derailment scene. In some cases, they towed vehicles a short distance to make room.
The Pickering GO station had been evacuated as a precaution. However, CN has said there is no indication of any hazardous materials leakage with the possible exception of some diesel fuel.
Some westbound Via Rail trains were apparently being delayed because of the derailment.
Durham Region Fire set up a command post near the site of the derailment.
Up to nine cars left the tracks, along with three non-operative locomotives, were involved in the derailment. Aerial images showed some tanker cars involved. One lumber car spilled its load. It came within a few metres of parked cars in the GO station lot.
A light standard got knocked down and slightly damaged one vehicle in the lot.
The reason for the derailment isn't clear yet. It also isn't clear when full rail service will be restored.
