Canada's Alto high‑speed rail project faces farmer protests in Ottawa

Farmers and rural residents from Ontario and Quebec marched on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, chanting “No Alto!” to oppose the government‑backed Alto high‑speed rail project that would link Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec City. They warned that the proposed corridor would cut through farms, block access roads and force long detours for agricultural equipment.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre pledged to cancel the $90 billion “white elephant” if elected, while Parti Québecois leader Paul St‑Pierre Plamondon said his party would withdraw from the plan. Alto CEO Martin Imbleau defended the project, citing long‑term benefits for Ontario and Quebec, and Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon said the government will consult communities and proceed with “great sensitivity and respect.”