Roadways cleared after demonstration caused traffic delays, closures near Gardiner Expressway

Roadways have re-opened after there were heavy traffic delays and closures downtown Toronto due to a reported demonstration called the “National March for Gaza” that began at the U.S. Consulate on University Avenue.

“I currently have family in the West Bank, they are scared, they don’t know when it’s coming for them,” said one demonstrator to CityNews.

Thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators rallied outside the U.S. consulate in solidarity for civilians in Gaza, as they demanded an end to Israel’s bombardment of Gaza.

The eastbound Gardiner Expressway was closed approaching Park Lawn Road, with traffic being forced off at the Lake Shore Boulevard ramp, and most on and off ramps are also closed as a result. 

The demonstration initially blocked University Avenue between Wellington Street West and Front Street, that moved towards the Gardiner Expressway, shutting down part of Lake Shore Boulevard. Demonstrators then moved eastbound on Bremner Boulevard.

More than 4,100 civilians have been killed in Gaza due to the Israel-Hamas war, and 200 people are being held hostage by Hamas.

“We have Canadian-Palestinian people there as well, they are stuck in Gaza, and every day they go to the border, but because it’s blocked, they can’t come back,” said another demonstrator.

Protests continue to happen across the world, most calling for peace, but demonstrators in Toronto are urging the federal government to step in and call for a ceasefire.

Demonstrators were on the roadway and Toronto police advised motorists to use caution in the area, expect traffic delays and consider alternate routes.

The final Toronto FC game of the season at BMO Field was delayed by 20 minutes due to the traffic.

Westbound 509 and 510 TTC streetcars on Queens Quay heading to Union Station were ending routes at Lower Spadina as drivers announced the detour due to the demonstration.