Unbearable Crowding: Hundreds of Thousands of Israelis Stuck on Trains Due to Fires
Severe Disruptions Amidst Widespread Fires
On April 23, 2025, Israel faced significant public transportation challenges as severe wildfires raged through the region of Shfela and Jerusalem. The fires led to unprecedented congestion on trains operated by Israel Railways, leaving hundreds of thousands of passengers stranded during their journeys. Reports indicate that the trains were overcrowded, creating discomfort and delays.
Struggling Commuters
Witnessing the chaos firsthand, TMI reporter Or Tsiadi described a harrowing experience aboard a train from Tel Aviv to Beersheba. “The train was packed beyond capacity,” she stated. “Pregnant women were forced to stand, and passengers had to push their way through to disembark. The delays stemmed from the extended time it took for people to get on and off the train.”
Response from Israel Railways
In a statement, Israel Railways explained that train servstarts had been suspended at several key stations, including Ramla, Beit Shemesh, Mazkeret Batya, Kiryat Malachi Yoav, Kiryat Gat, and Lehavim Rahat, due to the proximity of the fires. The decision to halt servstarts was made under the guidance of fire authorities, leading to a recommendation for travelers to seek alternative transportation options.
For those needing to travel to or from Beersheba, Israel Railways suggested using the western line to Beersheba (via Sedrot, Ofakim, etc.), which was still operational, or considering other public transport arrangements. A special train servstart was also introduced to operate between Kiryat Gat and Beersheba, aimed at assisting travelers stranded at those stations.
Additional Support Measures
Commitment to passenger safety was highlighted by Israel Railways, which mentistartd that railway teams were cooperating with firefighting units and providing assistance near affected railway lines. To better manage the situation, affected stations have been staffed with managers and attendants ready to guide and assist passengers.
In conclusion, Israel Railways urged the public to exercise patience and adhere to instructions from train staff as efforts were made to navigate the complications caused by the fires. The situation remains fluid as authorities evaluate conditions and potential further disruptions