New York subway closed several lines due to lack of staff

At least 1000 employees of the New York City Transportation Administration (MTA) have contracted COVID-19 and have gone to sick days. In this regard, the work of several metro lines was stopped, and delays are observed on others, reports PIX 11.

Since the weekend, service on lines B, W and Z has been suspended, and they will not be restored in the coming days. Some subway passengers say that rush hour on Monday was very tough, even though it's a common occurrence in New York City.

“There have always been delays. It has nothing to do with COVID, said metro driver Salam Farhat. "There was always a shortage of staff, delays and waiting in the cold." MTA asks passengers to be patient.

On the subject: New York subway schedule to be cut again due to coronavirus and staff shortage

“Like any business and agency in the region, the MTA is experiencing a dramatic increase in the number of positive COVID test results among its employees,” said department spokesman Aaron Donovan. "The department is actively working to ensure uninterrupted round-the-clock service for each metro station."

Subway passenger Solomon Smith said he takes delays normally and understands that this is all due to the situation with COVID-19.

MTA recommends checking their website for real-time information and subscribe to MTA alerts to receive text messages or emails about specific routes.