TORONTO - Transit agencies across Canada are adjusting their operations as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic — in some cases by suspending fare collection altogether.
Transit commissions in Halifax, Saint John, N.B., and Hamilton say they will stop collecting fares, while Montreal transit is operating on something of an honour system.
The Societe de Transport de Montreal says fares aren't being validated on buses and people who don't use mobility aids should board at the back doors.
But the Toronto Transit Commission is taking a different approach, saying fare inspectors will be on board but will no longer issue fines to fare evaders, instead educating them on the rules.
The TTC says the inspectors will leave vehicles once there are 50 people on board in an effort to practice proper "social distancing."
A spokeswoman for Saint John Transit says the agency has also blocked off the seat directly behind the driver for the sake of social distancing.