The rupture of the main water pipe located beneath the famous Times Square has caused several bustling streets and subway stations in the area to temporarily suspend operations.
Officials reported that on the evening of August 29 (local time), a large water pipe at Times Square in New York City unexpectedly experienced a serious failure. According to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) of New York, the pipe broke for the first time around 3:00 AM and was contained by 4:30 AM.
Over 1.8 million gallons (nearly 7 million liters) of water gushed forth, flooding numerous busy streets near Times Square and even inundating the Times Square – 42nd Street subway station, leading to chaotic traffic conditions. The New York City Department of Transportation indicated that the broken water pipe was installed in 1896 and has been in operation for nearly 130 years.
Devastation at the famous location in New York City
Approximately 1.8 million gallons of water flooded the subway system in New York following the incident
In a press conference, NYC Transportation President Richard Davey stated that although the main water pipe broke near Times Square around 3:00 AM, the subway stations further south suffered the most severe damage. MTA officials estimated that the incident affected the commute of 300,000 people.
Despite the situation being contained within about 90 minutes, the sheer volume of water caused some disruption in the surrounding areas. It wasn’t until 11:00 AM that subway services were restored.
However, the suspension of the 7th Avenue subway station, one of the busiest stations in the city, also greatly impacted the rest of the subway system. Authorities reported that they had to cut and alter routes for many lines, causing significant inconvenience for commuters.
An unbelievable scene at the subway tracks
Water flooding the subway tracks after the main pipe burst
The flooding created a rare sight in New York City
A worker attempts to address the situation so the subway can resume operations as soon as possible
Repair crews begin work after the water main break
