Mexico City Commuters Endure 'Calvary' Amid Light Rail Failure and Metro Closures

Mexico City commuters endured a "calvary" of travel disruptions Monday as a failure on the newly inaugurated "El Ajolote" Light Rail coincided with closures of five Metro Line 2 stations. The combined issues created significant delays and frustration for thousands trying to reach their destinations.

The "El Ajolote" Light Rail, which only began operating on May 11, suffered a broken cable between the Registro Federal and Textitlán stations for over four hours. This incident halted service from Estadio Azteca to Tasqueña, prompting some passengers to disembark and walk on the tracks. While service continued from Estadio Azteca to Xochimilco, alternative RTP (Red de Transporte Público) buses were deployed to assist affected passengers, though many expressed annoyance.

Adding to the chaos, five stations on Metro Line 2 were closed to accelerate rehabilitation work, a project intended to be completed before the World Cup begins in nine days. The closures, which began Friday for some stations, impacted a larger number of passengers on Monday, a workday. Long queues formed outside stations like Xola for RTP buses covering the closed segment to Pino Suárez.

Commuters described the situation as desperate and slow. Laura Hernández, a nurse, noted her commute was significantly longer than usual, calling the progress "desperate" due to the large crowds. Another commuter, María del Refugio, found her return journey unbearable due to the overwhelming number of people waiting for transport. Despite understanding the need for maintenance, the disruptions complicated daily activities, with some, like Hernández, arriving late to work.