NICTD investigating why train exceeded speed limit
Post-Tribune Staff Report November 15, 2012 4:32PM
An investigation is under way into a Wednesday incident in which a South Shore Railroad commuter train triggered a power outage and long delays for thousands of rush hour passengers.
Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District officials said eastbound Train 209 exceeded the 15 mph speed limit through a speed restricted crossover to another track between East Chicago and Cline Avenue. Officials said the higher speed damaged overhead lines, causing three-hour delays for commuters east of Hammond.
One passenger said he feared the train might derail when it snagged the overhead wires. Service finally resumed after 7 p.m. when power was restored, leaving commuters frustrated and angry.
In response to criticism about a lack of bus shuttle service, a NICTD press statement said bus transit services are limited in Northwest Indiana and the logistics in securing buses quickly couldn’t be accomplished in the three-hour delay.
NICTD said the railroad carries more than 4,000 passengers in a span of two hours during the evening rush hour.
