Wildfires Affect Western Canada and Rail Operations
Customer Advisory
British Columbia Wildfire impact on service
Dear Valued Customer,
We would like to update you on the situation in Western Canada in relation to the wildfires in the Lytton, BC area which has impacted the key access route towards the ports in Vancouver.
Transportation modes impacted: Both CN and CP Rail were granted access to the rail tracks to determine the necessary steps to resume safe rail operations. They are currently assessing the damage and estimating the time needed for repair.
CP Railways update:
- One line belonging to CP has been opened and CP is restarting the operations and trains following through the area at reduced speed.
- Westbound export in-gate embargo is in place requiring truckers to report to problem area to clear through Remote Operations Center (ROC). Embargo holds are being actively worked out by CP to ensure terminals accept containers in line with trains ramp-up.
CN railway update:
CN is currently working on directing traffic via alternative routes either by using the CP line on a co-production agreement or by collaboration with BNSF via different gateway. At this time an embargo has been issued on traffic going Westbound and Eastbound.
As mentioned on yesterday’s update, it is anticipated that regular flow in and out of port of Vancouver will be impacted for at least one week. We will see increased congestion at terminals and expect vessel delays.
We are working closely with different stakeholders to understand the impacts of the delays on terminal operations and to develop a contingency plan.
Impact to Maersk operations: Our offices are open and working – and not impacted since most of our staff are working from home. Our warehouses are open and working.
Your business is important to us and we pledge to keep you fully informed as more details become available.
Should you have any questions on the situation, please feel free to contact your local Maersk professional.
Sincerely,
Your Maersk Team
Notice to Customers
Pacific North West (PNW) Services Update
Dear Valued Customers,
Further to previous advisory, we would like to update you on the operational situation related to the wild fires in Lytton, BC area. CN Rail is working with local authorities to inspect the area, assess the damages and time needed for repairs and resuming operations. In the meantime, CN has moved some traffic by utilizing CP lines’ networks with limited capacity and will continue to plan rail movements whenever possible.
In terms of terminal operations, currently there are two ZP8/ZP9 vessels in Vancouver and pending operations.
- ZP8: Santa Ines (JK6 V.8N) is tentatively scheduled to start operations in Centerm terminal on July 9 local time.
- ZP9: Maersk Lins (YE4 V.10N) at Deltaport terminal is pending operations as she is not only affected by the wild fires but also a Covid case. Her operations start time is to be updated.
Thank you for your attention and understanding on this matter. We will continue to keep you posted of any further developments.
ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd
www.ZIM.com