Festival-Goers Face Transport Disruptions During FEQ Due to Strike; Taxi Services Step In
Quebec City, — Thousands of eager festival-goers heading to the Quebec Summer Festival (FEQ) are in for a transportation challenge as an opinion of strike by the maintenance workers of the capital’s transport network (RTC) goes into effect today. The strike, set for just after the festival’s kickoff, is expected to cause significant disruptions in public transportation services.:
Taxi Services Ready to Assist
Luc Selesse, spokesperson for Taxi Coop, assures the public that taxis will be available to helpxi face possible disruptions. “People won’t have to worry. Service will be there,” Selesse said. The taxi industry, though not on strike, plans to beef up its service by doubling the number of cars on the road. Drivers are eagerly increasing their hours, switching from day shifts to evenings to meet the expected demand. “I don’t need to motivate the troops; we’re in an economic slowdown, and they know they can’t miss this period,” Selesse added.
“The Misfortune of Some, the Delight of Others”
The potential congestion due to more cars on the road concerns the industry. If the dispute is not settled, drivers are hoping to gain access to the “essential” reserved lanes to facilitate quicker travel. “If we can get into the reserved tracks, it will relieve some pressure,” Selesse noted. Festival-goers, however, should expect delays. “Traffic will slow us down, for certain. Usually, the police are there and they do a good job of managing traffic,” he explained.
Practical Tips for Festival-Goers
For a smoother experience, Selesse advises festival-goers toUse Saint-Jean Street to leave after shows rather than trying to access sites directly. “Don’t call from the site. We won’t be able to go to Grande-Allée; it’s too complicated,” he cautioned.
Beware of “False Taxis”
With the increased demand and potential for fraud during such periods, Selesse warns against riding in non-regulated vehicles. The best way to recognize a legitimate Taxi Coop 5191 vehicle is to look for the number 418-525-5191 on the roof. “People are making false taxis with ordinary plates and taking advantage. We no longer have a real taxi plate to identify taxis,” Selesse warned. He encourages anyone who suspects an exemption, especially during high-demand times, to file a complaint.
In the bigger picture, this strike offers a chance to reflect on the importance of transport systems during high-traffic events. Past events of this nature have highlighted the need for robust contingency plans and community support in times of crisis. As we navigate through such disruptions, understanding the strategic roles of both public and private transportation systems can help mitigate future uncertainties and ensure smoother travel for all.
