Protective doors are finally coming to Toronto subway platforms but only to a new line under construction | CBC News

"The new Ontario Line will include protective barriers at all stations to separate platforms from the tracks, something the Toronto Transit Commission has been considering adding to its subway system for years. "Platform edge doors" will be a part of all 15 stations on the 15.6-kilometre downtown subway line, slated to open in 2031, city staff said at a budget meeting Wednesday. The doors are transparent barriers that open to allow riders inside when trains roll in, but otherwise keep people, animals and debris off the tracks."

""It's a huge safety improvement," said Chloe Tangpongprush, a spokesperson with transit advocacy group TTCRiders. "It prevents debris from falling onto the tracks, causing delays. It prevents people being pushed or falling onto the tracks. TTCRiders would like to see platform edge doors across the subway system eventually, Tangpongprush said."

"A TTC report last year found installing barriers at all platforms would save the agency $16 million annually by reducing delays, and $92 million in the social cost of injuries and deaths. On average, one to two people go onto transit tracks each day, TTC spokesperson Stuart Green said in an email. The transit agency announced in 2023 that platform edge doors would be installed at Bloor-Yonge as part of a major overhaul, but there's currently no funding to add them."

All 15 stations on the 15.6-kilometre Ontario Line will include platform edge doors that separate platforms from tracks. The transparent doors open when trains arrive and otherwise keep people, animals and debris off the tracks. Toronto Public Health recommended platform barriers in 2014 as part of suicide prevention. Advocates and transit rider groups support the doors to prevent falls and debris-related delays. A TTC report estimated barriers could save $16 million annually in reduced delays and $92 million in social costs from injuries and deaths. The agency announced Bloor-Yonge will get doors under a 2023 overhaul but currently lacks funding for system-wide installation.

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