On the morning of May 7, 2025, commuters in Milan experienced an unexpected disruption on the M2 metro line as a cloud of smoke filled the platform at Famagosta station. This incident, which occurred around 7:00 AM, prompted the immediate activation of the anti-fire systems, showering waiting passengers with water.
According to reports from various sources, the situation arose when a train arrived at the station with its parking brake still engaged, leading to a malfunction that generated smoke. The Milan transport company, ATM, confirmed that the alarm was triggered due to this technical issue, which is still under investigation.
As passengers awaited their trains, many were caught off guard by the sudden downpour from the fire suppression systems. “There was smoke in the tunnel, and a strong smell of burning,” recounted one passenger to Fanpage.it. “We were stuck in the tunnel for ten minutes, not understanding what was happening. Then the train left without stopping at Famagosta, and we saw the water on the platform and the train windows, and we understood.”
Despite the confusion, ATM reassured the public that safety is their top priority. A spokesperson stated, “Our systems functioned properly and activated immediately in response to the smoke.” The company emphasized that the swift action of the anti-fire systems ensured the safety of all passengers present.
Following the incident, the affected train was taken to the depot for thorough checks, and normal service resumed around 7:20 AM. Passengers who were drenched due to the water spray were informed that they could request a refund by filling out a form available on the ATM website.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic but ultimately under control. Many commuters, already prepared for inclement weather, opened their umbrellas to shield themselves from the unexpected “rain.” One commuter noted, “It was quite alarming at first, but we realized it was just the fire system working.”
While the incident created a moment of panic among passengers, there were no reported injuries, and the disruption to the metro service was minimal. Two subsequent trains heading towards Cascina Gobba did not stop at Famagosta as a precautionary measure.
The quick response from ATM and the effective operation of safety protocols highlighted the importance of preparedness in public transportation systems. As one official stated, “We are committed to ensuring the safety and comfort of our passengers, and we take incidents like this very seriously.”
In the aftermath, commuters expressed mixed feelings. While some were grateful for the swift action taken to protect them, others voiced frustration over the inconvenience caused. “It’s a hassle to deal with wet clothes and the delay, but at least we’re safe,” said one rider. “I appreciate that they are offering refunds, but I hope this doesn’t happen again.”
The incident at Famagosta station serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in urban transit systems and the need for robust safety measures. As cities continue to grow and public transport systems expand, ensuring the safety of passengers remains a top priority.
As the day progressed, the incident drew attention on social media, with many users sharing their experiences and expressing their concerns about safety on public transport. Some called for better communication from transport authorities during emergencies, while others highlighted the importance of regular maintenance checks to prevent such occurrences.
In conclusion, while the smoke incident at Famagosta station caused temporary distress among commuters, it also showcased the effectiveness of emergency protocols in place. The rapid response by ATM and the activation of safety systems ensured that no one was harmed, allowing normal operations to resume shortly after the event.
