February 18, 2025
PEEL REGION, ONTARIO – This winter, the residents of Brampton and Mississauga have been facing what can only be described as a snow removal debacle. With nearly two feet of snow blanketing the region, the Peel area has turned into a veritable winter nightmare.
Snowstorm Havoc: The recent snowstorm, one of the fiercest in recent memory, has left roads impassable, driveways inaccessible, and sidewalks treacherous. The sight of a Delta Airlines flight literally turning upside down at Pearson Airport was a stark reminder of how unprepared we are for these winter conditions.
Residents’ Outrage: On social media, the frustration is palpable. “Unacceptable,” shouts one Brampton resident on X, lamenting the city’s failure to clear sidewalks, crucial for those who rely on public transit or simply need to walk. Another Mississauga resident tweeted, “Trapped in my own driveway! Thanks, @CityMississauga for nothing,” highlighting the issue of windrows – those pesky piles of snow left at the end of driveways by city plows.
Towing and Ticketing Fiasco: To add insult to injury, the Peel region has seen an uptick in towing vehicles from streets to allow for plowing, with some residents reporting their cars were moved without proper notice. “Got a ticket for parking on my street because apparently, my car was in the way of a plow that never came,” one Mississauga resident fumed online. The costs? Fines are hitting residents hard, with some facing penalties of up to $250 for simply trying to navigate this winter chaos.
Windrow Woes: The windrow issue has been particularly egregious this year. After spending hours clearing their driveways, residents find themselves blocked again by these snow piles, rendering their efforts futile. “I feel like I’m in a Groundhog Day loop with these windrows,” a Bramptonite exclaimed on social media.
Incidents, Injuries, and Inconveniences: The storm has not only caused inconvenience but real danger. Reports have surfaced of people slipping on uncleared sidewalks, with one resident from Mississauga describing a fall that led to a broken arm. The lack of timely snow removal has also delayed emergency services, with one Brampton resident expressing fear that “ambulances won’t even reach us when we need them.”
Mayoral Response: Both Mayors Patrick Brown of Brampton and Carolyn Parrish of Mississauga have acknowledged the crisis. Mayor Brown has promised more robust snow removal operations, stating, “We are doing everything in our power to clear our streets.” Meanwhile, Mayor Parrish has pledged to expedite the city-wide windrow clearing program, emphasizing the need for better winter preparedness, but for many, this is too little, too late.
Statistics of Suffering: This winter, Brampton has seen a 30% increase in snow removal complaints compared to last year, while Mississauga’s numbers have jumped by 40%. Over 500 vehicles have been towed for obstructing snow removal efforts, and there’s been a 60% surge in tickets issued for parking violations related to snow operations.
Winter Readiness – A Call to Action: It’s clear that this winter has exposed the inadequacies in our snow management. Residents are urged to take additional precautions:
Prepare: Keep essential supplies like shovels, salt, and snow blowers ready.
Community Help: Assist neighbors, especially seniors or those with disabilities, in clearing snow.
Stay Informed: Use city apps or websites to track plow activity and follow parking restrictions.
Vehicle Readiness: Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready with good tires, emergency kits, and if possible, avoid parking on streets during snow events.
This winter has been a stark reminder that in a country known for its harsh winters, both residents and municipal leadership must do better. The residents of Brampton and Mississauga deserve a collaborative effort that ensures they’re not left out in the cold, but rather, are well-equipped to face it together. With proactive measures from all sides, the winters of Peel Region can be managed more effectively, ensuring safety, accessibility, and community resilience.