CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — An initial report from the National Transportation Safety Board has revealed that a subway train that derailed near Boston earlier this month was traveling significantly over the speed limit as it entered a restricted area. The Green Line train, which departed from Lechmere Station in Cambridge, entered a 10 mph zone while traveling at a speed of 36 mph, breaching the established limit by more than three times. The report indicated that the train also failed to stop at a double red signal that requires a halt and approached a switch that was still in motion, directing the train towards a diverging track.
During this critical moment, the first wheel sets of the lead railcar proceeded straight ahead, while the subsequent two wheel sets veered onto the diverging track, resulting in a derailment.
The incident took place on October 1 during the busy afternoon commute, causing injuries to seven passengers who were subsequently hospitalized with minor injuries. The damage calculations for the train and infrastructure are currently still under assessment.
Investigators noted that the weather conditions at the time of the derailment were clear, with temperatures around 62°F (16.6°C) and no rainfall affecting visibility.
The probe by the NTSB is still in progress, with further inquiries set to focus on the adherence to speed regulations and the internal and external oversight of operations.
Officials from the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) have stated that they are actively analyzing the preliminary findings of the report. The MBTA acknowledged the NTSB’s confirmation of its initial assessment regarding the train operator’s excessive speed at the time of the incident.
Furthermore, the train operator remains off duty while the MBTA Safety Department conducts its own investigation, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of both riders and employees.
To enhance safety measures, MBTA trains are equipped with GPS technology, allowing real-time tracking of all surface line movements. Supervisors on the Green Line receive alerts if any train exceeds the predetermined speed thresholds.
There are also nine stationary speed signs placed strategically along the Green Line. These signs help monitor vehicle speeds and compare them against the programmed speed limits.
Officials from the MBTA have increased their efforts to ensure compliance with operational protocols, particularly with respect to speed regulations. Operators who violate these rules are subject to disciplinary actions, according to agency representatives.