After attending a MassDOT conference focused on improving rail reliability, commuter rail passenger Dan Brogan found himself stuck on a commuter train for nearly two hours.
Here's what to know
A mechanical problem with an MBTA Commuter Rail train kept passengers on the Providence Line delayed for hours, according to NBC Boston.
"The lights were off. There was no circulating air at this point," Brogan said to NBC Boston. "It was getting really stuffy, really hot."
"We got off in the middle of a dark tunnel, then walked on the rails itself to hop on at the Ruggles station," he said.
More background
Problems with train wheels during braking can occur when fallen leaves leave a slick coating on the rails, which is what caused this train's mechanical trouble.
Brogan said that reaching Ruggles gave riders hope they could continue their trip, but there was more stress to come.
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"Another hour and a half goes by," Brogan said. "Folks are just stranded on the staircase, stranded on the platform, no clear messaging, communication, no overhead announcements, anything like that."
What's being done?
The MBTA said passengers made their way to another train safely, but there isn't any additional action that officials are planning at the moment.
"I think this can be a learning opportunity for the MBTA and ourselves," Brogan concluded to NBC Boston.
Where can I learn more?
Reliable service matters to riders on Boston's buses as well as its commuter trains.
• Massachusetts' MBTA commuter rail costs hit $5.2 billion, with a new contract potentially topping $10 billion.
• Boston's slowest MBTA buses are getting slower while bunching eases, offering a mixed picture of service.
• Boston neighborhoods with limited transit access will get five free shuttle routes to improve connections.
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