The key figure of a prominent New York City transportation union is voicing concerns following a recent security breakdown. The incident, involving an alleged unauthorized manning and operation of a vacant R train, occurred in Forest Hills and has raised several questions about the security of NYC’s public transit system.
Based on reports from law enforcement agencies, the sequence of events unfolded around 10 p.m. on January 25 close to the 71st-Continental Avenue station. The perpetrators reportedly seized control of the train from a facility located in Jamaica Yard, according to updates relayed by the Citizen App.
Once in control, the group is said to have piloted the train at speeds exceeding 30 mph. However, at present, it remains uncertain how far the train might have traveled during this unauthorized trip.
Exactly how the individuals managed to gain access to the train continues to be shrouded in mystery. Members of the TWU Local 100 union, however, suggest certain weaknesses in the R160 cars used on the train might have facilitated the illegal act.
The R160 cars, relatively modern models in use across the city, have been identified as susceptible to unlawful entries by TWU Local 100, who have previously voiced their concerns to NYC Transit. There is a growing consensus within the union that these means of transportation need augmented security measures.
This issue bridges beyond just the carriages. A lapse in the security of the entire transit fleet could pose risks not only to NYC Transit personnel but also to riders. The union underscores the need for holistic security enhancement, emphasizing that the risk is universal.
On the subsequent Wednesday, Janno Lieber, the Chair and CEO of the MTA, labeled the event as ‘unacceptable’, attributing it to a systemic failure in security. He expressed his discontent and concern regarding the incident, particularly its implications for riders and public transport staff alike.
Lieber elaborated on an initiative by the MTA to improve security on older subway trains, particularly focusing on the locking mechanisms. He, however, acknowledges that this process needs to be expedited given the recent incident.
In addition to the existing security improvements that are in progress, Lieber advocates for more advanced control measures, specifically for operations pertaining to the newly acquired cars. The need to secure the operation of these modern models with much more than traditional locks and keys resonates with his recommendations.
Lieber added that attention should also be given to the security of the storage yards where these subway cars are parked, proposing the idea of securing them with barbed wire or other modern security measures. His comprehensive security revamp plan aspires to ensure safety at all levels and in all aspects of the NYC transit infrastructure.
In parallel with these discussions, Police have made public surveillance footage of the persons believed to be responsible for the R train incident. As of the present, no arrests related to the incident have been made and fortunately, no injuries were reported during the entire ordeal.
NYC Transit is currently coordinating its efforts with the NYPD trying to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident. The joint task force aims to bring the perpetrators to justice and prevent a recurrence of such security challenges.
To accelerate the investigation process, an incentive in the form of a reward has been offered. Information conclusively leading to the arrest of the individuals involved in the incident could yield a reward of up to $3,500.
This unfortunate occurrence underscores the crucial need to reevaluate and revamp the security measures in place for NYC’s public transportation infrastructure. Safety enhancements should reach beyond just locking mechanisms to a more comprehensive and effective approach that includes modern technologies and innovative methods.
Although the event itself delivers a startling reminder of the vulnerability within the city’s public transit system, it serves as a catalyst for a much-needed transformation aimed at ensuring the safety of both the workforce and the public ridership, encapsulating the essence of NYC’s Transit’s justice and security imperative.