VIA introduces toll- free number for train operations in Northern Manitoba

VIA continues to work closely in response to community needs
Winnipeg - VIA Rail Canada is pleased to announce that effective today, a toll-free number has been set up to provide up-to-date information regarding its Hudson Bay service to Churchill, Manitoba. The number will ensure communities, particularly in Northern Manitoba, have access to timely information regarding any delays or disruptions to service along the Winnipeg to Churchill route.

“VIA has been working closely with communities in Northern Manitoba for some time now,” said Michael Woelcke, Director of Customer Experience, Winnipeg. “It has been a growing process and one that has allowed VIA to develop and adopt changes to our services that meet the needs of the communities we serve. The establishment of this number speaks to the commitment of all those involved in the process.”

This initiative, a partnership between VIA and Hudson Bay Railway (HBR) recognizes the importance of this service to the communities it serves. This number will be activated whenever there is a delay/disruption to service enroute and updated every two hours.

At the same time, an emergency contact list has been created that will allow VIA to contact directly, key individuals in Northern Manitoba communities, to ensure this information is communicated throughout the surrounding area.

VIA train #693 operates from Winnipeg to Churchill, every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. Southbound train #692 operates from Churchill to Winnipeg on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The toll-free number - 888 842-6348 will be activated only when disruptions in service occur.

As Canada’s national passenger rail service, VIA Rail connects the entire world to the West’s vibrant tourism industry. With more than 700 employees in Western Canada, VIA is dedicated to improving the quality of passenger service. From Northern Manitoba, across Saskatchewan and Alberta, to British Columbia’s Pacific Rim, VIA serves more than 100 communities. VIA continues to develop, market and deliver services to meet the needs of Western Canadians, in partnership with the people, communities and businesses served by passenger rail.