SkyTrain Passengers Evacuated After Smoke Incident on Expo Line
A sudden evening disruption for skytrain commuters
On Monday evening, August 12, 2025, hundreds of skytrain passengers faced unexpected chaos when heavy smoke filled part of the Expo Line, forcing an urgent evacuation. The incident occurred near 22nd Street Station in New Westminster, creating delays across the entire network and leaving many riders stranded.
According to TransLink, the smoke originated from a mechanical issue beneath one of the trains. As a precaution, all passengers were evacuated, and emergency crews rushed to the scene to secure the area.
How did the smoke incident unfold?
The trouble started shortly after 6:30 p.m., when a SkyTrain approaching 22nd Street Station suddenly began to fill with smoke. Commuters reported a burning smell and saw haze spreading through the carriages.
One passenger, Victor Das, shared a video on X showing the situation inside the station:
Emergency alarms were activated, and the train came to a stop. Staff guided passengers to safety using emergency walkways, with many having to leave the train between stations.
Passenger experiences during the evacuation
Eyewitness accounts revealed moments of tension but also quick cooperation. Kenneth Chan, a Daily Hive journalist who was on board, described the situation in his tweet:
Passengers remained calm as they were escorted out, though some expressed concern over the thick smoke and lack of immediate communication. Many commuters filmed the incident, showing dark plumes rising near the track area.
Was there a fire on the skytrain?
While early reports from social media speculated about a possible fire, TransLink later confirmed that there were no flames, only smoke caused by overheating equipment beneath the train. Firefighters from New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services responded quickly to ensure no fire spread along the tracks.
Impact on service and commuter delays
The Expo Line was temporarily shut down between New Westminster and Columbia Stations for several hours. Replacement shuttle buses were deployed, but long queues formed at affected stations.
A video posted by 604RAW showed smoke billowing outside the station as firefighters worked on the scene:
TransLink’s evening update assured passengers that trains would resume normal service later that night, though some delays persisted into the late hours.
Why did this happen?
Mechanical failures can occur in any rapid transit system, but hot summer temperatures may have contributed to the equipment overheating. Officials are now inspecting similar trains on the Expo Line to ensure no further risk.
What’s next for the skytrain network?
TransLink has promised a full investigation, with a detailed report expected in the coming weeks. They are also considering preventive measures, such as improved cooling systems and more frequent equipment inspections.
This incident comes at a time when the SkyTrain network is under increased public scrutiny due to aging infrastructure and rising passenger numbers. The Expo Line, one of the busiest in Metro Vancouver, carries thousands of riders daily, making reliability a top priority.
Did the evacuation go as planned?
While some commuters questioned the delay in announcements, overall the evacuation was carried out safely. TransLink staff were seen assisting older ones and disabled passengers, and emergency walkways were used effectively.
Transportation safety experts note that the lack of panic was a positive sign, as crowd control during such incidents is critical to prevent injuries.
Public reaction and social media coverage
The incident quickly became a trending topic in Vancouver, with many passengers sharing real-time updates. Some praised TransLink for its quick response, while others criticized the delay in information.
Social media posts also sparked discussions about the need for better ventilation systems in SkyTrain cars and more transparent communication during emergencies.
Could this happen again?
According to experts, while smoke incidents are rare, they are not impossible. Preventive maintenance and rapid response are key to minimizing risks. TransLink has assured riders that safety remains their top concern and that all Expo Line trains will be checked thoroughly.
Authorities urge calm and patience
Officials are urging passengers not to jump to conclusions while the investigation is ongoing. They have emphasized that there was no fire and no injuries reported.
In a statement, TransLink thanked passengers for their cooperation and patience during the disruption, adding that such measures are taken purely to ensure public safety.
Conclusion
The skytrain smoke incident on the Expo Line was a reminder of the importance of strong safety protocols and emergency preparedness in public transit systems. While delays frustrated many commuters, the fact that no one was hurt is a testament to the efficiency of the evacuation process.
As Metro Vancouver continues to rely heavily on its SkyTrain network, ensuring that both the infrastructure and emergency response systems are up to the task will be essential in the years ahead.
FAQ’S
The SkyTrain Expo Line, launched in 1985, was the first automated rapid transit line in Vancouver, built for Expo 86.
The Expo Line is the oldest SkyTrain line, opening in 1985.
SkyTrain is controlled by a computer-based system and monitored by transit staff from a central control room.
The Expo Line was completed in stages, with the initial section opening in 1985 and later extensions added.
SkyTrain is owned by TransLink, the transportation authority for Metro Vancouver.
No, SkyTrain is not free. Passengers must buy tickets or use a Compass Card to ride.
TransLink is a public agency overseen by the Mayors’ Council on Regional Transportation in Metro Vancouver.
Yes, SkyTrains are fully automated and driverless.
As of 2025, Vancouver has a population of about 675,000 residents, with over 2.6 million in the Metro area.
The London Underground, opened in 1863, is the oldest metro in the world.
The Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia is the world’s longest railway line, stretching over 9,000 kilometers.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and not financial advice. Always conduct your research.