In an article by Raveena Aulakh, the Toronto Star reports that a photo of a TTC fare collector inside the ticket booth at McCowan Station, reclining on a chair, his arms draped over his stomach, has gone viral, appearing around the world after a passenger tweeted it.

The photo of the collector — who appears to be snoozing — was enough to prompt the TTC to start an inquiry.

Jason Wieler took the photo on January 9 around 10 p.m. Yesterday, Thursday, January 21, he posted it on Twitpic with this caption: “Yup, love how my TTC dollars R being spent … “

Wieler was leaving the station when he saw the ticket agent catnapping in full view. “I stood by for at least five minutes and he was sleeping,” said Wieler.

Some riders were laughing while others were talking about him, he said. A few even went through without paying their fare or showing their Metropass. “I thought here we are, with a fare hike, and look how the money is being wasted.”

As soon as the photo was posted, the comments began piling up, mostly from annoyed transit users.

“I didn’t post to get anyone in trouble, but to highlight TTC problems,” said Wieler.

The TTC is taking it seriously, spokesman Brad Ross said.

“Employees have a responsibility with respect to safety of the station and the system,” said Ross. “We expect them to be always alert on their jobs. This is unacceptable.”

But he said there might have been extenuating circumstances.

“We are asking for an explanation.”