Mexico City Metro Line 3 Users Complain of Severe Delays and Breakdowns

Passengers on Line 3 of the Mexico City Metro are voicing frustration over persistent issues, including delays of up to 20 minutes, trains stopping between stations, smoke, sparks, and breakdowns. Users report these problems have become increasingly frequent over the past three to four years.

“

It stops a lot. I've had to wait 10 or even 20 minutes, and the trains take a long time to arrive. This happens at any time [morning, afternoon, or night].

Adela Sánchez, a daily commuter, described waiting 10 to 20 minutes for trains, noting that the delays occur at all hours. She has also witnessed alarming incidents involving smoke and sparks inside a train, raising concerns about passenger safety. "We want them to fix it already," she stated, emphasizing the need for the renovation to be a priority given the line's heavy usage.

Marcelina Guadalupe, 82, who travels from Cuautitlán to Ciudad Universitaria, acknowledged the Metro as the fastest way to cross the city but recounted experiencing various failures during her journeys. She described the frightening sensation of suffocating smoke inside trains and instances where service was suspended, forcing passengers to find alternative routes. Guadalupe stressed that the rehabilitation of Line 3 must prioritize maintenance and technology upgrades to prevent future failures.

“

It's scary when you're inside. Sometimes the smoke feels very penetrating and breathing becomes suffocating. I've also had to deal with service suspensions, and we have to find another way to get there because they kick us out of the station.

Manuel, a resident of Santo Domingo, recognized that delays and slow train circulation are typical for a decades-old system. However, he stressed the indispensable nature of Line 3's renovation due to high demand, particularly from students and workers. The users' complaints come after Mexico City's Head of Government, Clara Brugada, announced a rehabilitation plan for Line 3, which includes acquiring 45 new trains, comprehensive track rehabilitation, and modernizing all stations. Commuters are urging the government to complete these works as quickly as possible.

“

Yes, I've had it stop or go a little slow, but it's a transport that works every day; it's metal and needs maintenance.