This Broken Subway Rail In Queens Snarled Monday Morning Commutes

LONG ISLAND CITY, QUEENS — Subway riders heading between Queens and Manhattan during morning rush hour Monday faced packed platforms and commutes that took nearly twice as long as usual — and it's all thanks to a chipped rail on the 7 line at Queensboro Plaza.

The problem started just before 7 a.m. Monday, when MTA crews got a report of the broken rail just west of the Queensboro Plaza subway station, according to a spokesperson.

A 10-inch piece of rail had snapped off the track, the New York Daily News reported.

Workers halted 7-train service between Queensboro Plaza and Court Square to make repairs, just as commuters flooded the subway system for morning rush hour.

The issue on the 7 line prompted a ripple effect of delays on the E, F, M and R lines, according to the MTA. Frustrated commuters posted photos on social media that showed subway platforms in Jackson Heights and Long Island City packed to the brim.

A+ commute this AM with the 7 train out of service. pic.twitter.com/Qye5Ey7SQY
— Meghan Cohorst (@mcohorst) August 26, 2019

Everyone from the 7 train trying to get on alternatives that are too full for anyone to get on. #mta @NYCTSubway @unsuckMTA pic.twitter.com/CGbNzVesra
— Jennifer Morton (@jennifermmorton) August 26, 2019

Don’t think I’m getting to work anytime soon. 7 train suspended. E train delays and can’t get on a train. Happy Monday. @NYCTSubway pic.twitter.com/dOZqnrfLTd
— Kate J. (@neonsilvr16) August 26, 2019

The LIRR briefly allowed MetroCard holders to board at no additional cost but only at certain stations.

It wasn't until just after 9 a.m. that the MTA restored full service, according to an agency spokesperson.