55 per cent of Metro Vancouver residents fear violence on public transportation poll

A new poll reveals that 55% of Metro Vancouver residents fear violence while using public transportation, even as 68% report feeling safe in their neighborhoods at night. Frequent transit users described witnessing violent incidents, including brawls and aggressive outbursts from individuals with mental health concerns. Despite these perceptions, Metro Vancouver Transit Police report that crimes against passengers remain stable and significantly lower than in 2022, when they peaked. Cst. Amanda Steed explained that constant exposure to violent imagery in media may intensify feelings of insecurity among the public.

TransLink supports the police's claims with statistics indicating a reduction in crime. They also promote an emergency text line, 87-77-77, for passengers to report safety concerns. Safety measures like CCTV and silent alarms are implemented throughout the transit system to enhance rider security. The situation highlights a disconnect between perceived and actual safety on public transportation in the region.