Highway 116 was closed in both directions Thursday in Saint-Basile-le-Grand in the Montérégie due to a massive underground natural gas leak.
The gas leak was repaired and a portion of the highway was reopened early Thursday evening.
Gaz Metro workers discovered a ruptured pipline at around 7:30 a.m. however the cause of the rupture is unclear.
A one-kilometre safety perimeter was established around the leak while major excavation work was carried out on the pavement surrounding the problem.
Hydro-Québec has cut electricity in the area and Via Rail is reporting major delays and cancellations of trains between Montreal and Quebec City. Check arrivals and departures here.
Authorities are encouraging people to use Highway 20 or the road along the Richelieu River if possible.
