The Instagram account OnlyinDade, known for documenting unusual situations and features of the city, has sparked controversy after posting a video in which two young people are seen traveling on the roof of a Metrorail car at the Coconut Grove station in Miami.
The post, which includes the comment: "It seems like they're taking the scenic route" along with the hashtag #ONLYinDADE, has triggered a flood of reactions on social media.
“They are bringing NYC habits to Miami now,” “Are they hiding from ICE?”, “Real life subway surfers,” “Many kids have died because of this,” were some of the comments that could be read in the post.
The images show individuals in a highly dangerous maneuver while the train is moving. This reckless behavior not only endangers the lives of those involved but has also sparked a debate about safety in the public transportation system of Miami-Dade.
"Entering the Metrorail Guide and boarding the vehicles is not only illegal and can lead to arrest and prosecution, but it is also extremely dangerous and may result in death or injury to others. Please, under no circumstances enter the track area or board the vehicles. Safety is a shared responsibility, and we ask all riders to say something if they see something. Thank you," stated the Miami-Dade County Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW).
According to NBC Miami, "the police have not made any arrests regarding this incident."
The phenomenon, known as "train surfing", has gained notoriety on social media, where some view it as an adrenaline-fueled act. However, authorities warn that this behavior can lead to serious injuries, fines, and even criminal charges.
The Miami Metrorail is an elevated train system that runs through the city from north to south, with two lines covering 40 kilometers and 23 stations.
Inaugurated in the 1980s, it is the only system of its kind in Florida and was conceived as a sustainable alternative to the construction of new highways in the 1970s, when the city was facing significant population growth and traffic congestion.
This transportation system relieves the streets of Miami of more than 44,000 cars daily and connects to key tourist destinations such as Coconut Grove, the Vizcaya Museum, Brickell Avenue, and the Government Center.
In addition, it offers connections with the Metromover for traveling around the city center. The fares are affordable, with a single ticket costing $2.25 and a daily pass available for $5.65. Payments can be made by card or through a mobile app, as cash is not accepted.
Over the years, Metrorail has undergone upgrades to enhance the user experience. In December 2017, new trains with features such as bicycle racks and Wi-Fi access were introduced, replacing vehicles that had been in service for more than 33 years.
The Miami Metrorail is regarded as a community achievement that not only enhanced urban mobility but also set a precedent for future transportation projects in the Sunshine City.
Frequently Asked Questions about Safety and the Transportation System in Miami
What is "train surfing" and why is it dangerous?
Train surfing is an illegal and dangerous activity that involves traveling on the roof of a moving train. This reckless behavior can lead to serious injuries, fines, and even criminal charges. Furthermore, it endangers not only those who engage in it but also other passengers and the transport system staff.
How does "train surfing" affect the safety of Miami's Metrorail?
Train surfing compromises the safety of the Metrorail system, as it puts the lives of those involved at risk and can cause accidents that affect other passengers. The authorities of the Miami-Dade Department of Transportation and Public Works have warned about the seriousness of this act and have urged the community to report any suspicious activity to ensure everyone's safety.
What safety measures are in place on Miami's Metrorail to prevent incidents like "train surfing"?
The Miami Metrorail has surveillance systems and security personnel to monitor activities within the stations and trains. Authorities emphasize the importance of citizen collaboration to report any suspicious activity. Additionally, there are awareness campaigns about the risks and legal consequences of illegal activities such as "train surfing".
What is the importance of the Metrorail in Miami for urban mobility?
The Miami Metrorail is crucial for urban mobility, as it relieves the city's streets of more than 44,000 cars daily. It connects key tourist destinations and provides links with the Metromover to facilitate travel around the city center. This transportation system significantly helps to reduce traffic congestion and improve the quality of life in Miami.
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