Panic as Passengers Escape Smoke-Filled Train on Athens Metro

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Passengers on an Athens metro train were forced to self-evacuate earlier today after smoke filled the carriages, with some reportedly jumping onto the tracks in a panic.

The incident occurred at approximately noon on Wednesday on an ISAP Line 1 train travelling between Neratziotissa and Irini stations. Passengers first noticed smoke coming from beneath the train and quickly pulled the emergency brake.

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According to STASY, the train operator, passengers then began to self-evacuate, with some reportedly forcing open doors and jumping onto the tracks before the train had come to a complete stop.

The driver, alerted by the emergency brake, cut power to the train and contacted the control center. This action also halted a train travelling in the opposite direction at Neratziotissa station.

Thankfully, no injuries were reported.

Firefighters arrived at the scene and extinguished a fire that had broken out beneath the train. An investigation into the cause of the fire is currently underway.

Following the incident, service on Line 1 was disrupted with trains running only between Piraeus and Heraklion stations, and then later to Irini. Normal service has since resumed.

In a statement, STASY confirmed that the fire did not originate within the train itself and that the vehicle sustained no visible damage. The train has been taken to a depot for further inspection.

This incident highlights the importance of remaining calm and following safety procedures during emergencies on public transport.