Italian Rail Chaos: Technical Malfunction Paralyzes Commuters

A technical malfunction on a rail line between Rome's main stations caused long delays and cancellations in Italy. The issue, due to an error with an electric cabin supplying energy, affected train services across the country. Authorities are investigating the rare failure, which caused severe disruptions during commuting hours.

Italy's rail system plunged into chaos on Wednesday, as a technical malfunction between Rome's main stations led to extensive delays and cancellations for travelers.

Rachel Dame, an American tourist, described Termini station as chaotic, with screens displaying extensive delays. The disruption began at 6:20 a.m. due to an electric cabin failure affecting the energy supply to the rail intersection between Termini and Tiburtina stations, according to Rete Ferroviaria Italiana's CEO, Gianpiero Strisciuglio.

Transport Minister Matteo Salvini indicated that an overnight error by a private company caused the issue and criticized the slow response. The affected intersection is crucial for north-south train travel, resulting in delays up to three hours across the country. Ferrovie dello Stato expects normalcy by day's end, while opposition MP Angelo Bonelli criticized recurring breakdowns.

(With inputs from agencies.)