THUNDER BAY — Some Thunder Bay Transit operators are feeling unsafe after a leak in a water pipe forced the city to shut off the supply at the Water Street bus terminal.
Since about the middle of last week, the lack of running water in the building has made the toilets and sinks unusable, but two portable toilets have been set up outside, with locks on the doors.
On social media, one driver complained that the porta-potties aren't monitored and that there are no lights inside, leaving them completely dark when the doors are closed.
Another wrote "I'm scared someone's going to heave on the handle when I'm using it."
Fred Caputo, president of Amalgamated Transit Union local 966, said Tuesday that he knows "it's not an ideal situation for operators but the circumstances are that there isn't a lot of access for washrooms around that area."
He said the city has arranged for drinking water to be delivered to the terminal, and the union's health and safety committee is monitoring the situation.
"I'm looking into this as we go, day by day. Right now, I'm just trying to find out how long this is going to be. Hopefully we can get some word today."
Transit manager Brad Loroff said he's been informed that repairs to the broken water line are expected to be completed this week.
One driver complained in an interview on Tuesday.
"It's taking too long. I don't know why they couldn't fix it before the holiday weekend."
