Chaos in Beijing: Rush Hour Subway Collision Leaves 102 With Broken Bones
In a harrowing incident during Thursday's rush hour, two subway trains in Beijing collided, resulting in 102 people sustaining broken bones and over 500 individuals rushed to hospitals. The collision occurred on the Changping subway line during heavy snowfall, causing slippery tracks. Reports suggest that snowstorms led to signal degradation, prompting the first train to abruptly brake. Unable to stop on the icy tracks, the following train collided with the rear of the first, causing the last two carriages of one train to detach.
As of Friday morning, 423 individuals have been discharged from hospitals, while 67 remain hospitalized for treatment, and 25 are under observation. Shocking images and footage circulated online depict crowded and darkened subway carriages, with some commuters resorting to emergency hammers to break windows for fresh air. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported.
Chinese netizens expressed fury and concern, questioning the adequacy of maintenance and routine inspections on the Beijing Subway system. The operator, Beijing Subway, issued an apology and pledged to cover the medical expenses of the injured. Given the extreme weather conditions, the operator has implemented manual mode for above-ground trains and widened intervals between them.
The affected section of the subway line, spanning three stations, remains closed. The incident adds to the disruptions caused by snowfall in Beijing, impacting road, rail, and air transport. As temperatures are expected to plunge across northern China, the aftermath of this subway collision highlights the vulnerability of transportation systems during adverse weather conditions.
Deep Freeze Grips China: Meteorological Warnings as Temperatures Plummet
Meteorological authorities in China are issuing stern warnings as temperatures are anticipated to plummet by 8 to 12 degrees Celsius in most regions from Thursday through Sunday. This drastic drop in temperatures raises the possibility of the mercury dipping below -20 degrees Celsius in Beijing over the weekend, marking an extreme weather event for the capital city.
The anticipated cold wave has prompted authorities in several cities to take precautionary measures, including the closure of schools and the suspension of train services. As the nation braces for the frigid conditions, disruptions to daily life are expected, with residents urged to take necessary precautions to safeguard against the harsh weather.
The severity of this sudden temperature drop underscores the challenges posed by extreme weather events and the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the population.
In conclusion, China finds itself in the grip of an impending deep freeze as meteorological authorities issue stark warnings of a significant temperature plunge in the coming days. With the possibility of temperatures in Beijing plummeting below -20 degrees Celsius, cities across the nation are taking preemptive measures, including school closures and the suspension of train services. As communities brace for the extreme weather conditions, the situation emphasizes the importance of preparedness and swift responses to safeguard public safety during abrupt and severe shifts in weather patterns.