A potential strike in the railways, which may begin just after midnight on Thursday, could disrupt some passengers in the Greater Toronto Area.

More than 9,000 workers at Canada's two main railway companies are expected to be off work starting at 12:01 AM on Thursday.

This week, the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference - the union representing workers at the rail company - announced that it has given notice of the strike to the railway.

Meanwhile, the national railway has issued a notice stating that it will close its doors to its workers at the same time unless an agreement is reached or the parties resort to binding arbitration.

In a statement, Metrolinx said the rail strike will not affect most GO Transit passengers. However, GO Train service on the Milton line will be temporarily suspended, as well as GO Train service at Hamilton GO station.

Metrolinx stated that UP Express and all other GO lines will not be affected.

Metrolinx added, "We are closely monitoring this situation and will update our customers on any changes if work stoppage occurs."

Customers using the Milton line told CP24 on Wednesday that the potential service disruption would complicate their commutes. Some said they will have to drive, while others mentioned they will likely try to work from home if possible. Others expressed uncertainty about what they will do.

Metrolinx advises customers in the Milton corridor to consider local transportation options or to take advantage of GO Transit services in the Lakeshore West or Kitchener corridors as an alternative.

GO customers in Hamilton can use Aldershot GO station as an alternative or use the normally scheduled GO Bus service on Route 16.

Regardless of the potential disruptions for passengers, the rail strike is likely to have a significant impact on freight movement across the country.