NYC Subways Have an ‘Alarmingly High’ Level of Pollutants, New Study Finds

As residents of the Big Apple, we’ve all experienced the convenience of our bustling subway system. However, a recent study shows that we might be paying an unexpected price for this handy mode of transport: inhaling high levels of potentially harmful particles.

Source: FOX 5 New York/Youtube

Scientists from New York University have recently disclosed disturbing facts about the air quality in the NYC subway system. Their research spanned 271 platforms and found that airborne iron particles were a shocking 126 times higher than the outdoor average.

To put it in context, iron inhalation has been linked to neurological disorders like autism, ADHD, and schizophrenia, as well as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and respiratory illnesses.

The dubious honor of the most polluted station goes to 181st Street on the 1 line, with airborne particles 17 times higher than what the EPA deems safe. Following closely are stations at 168th Street, Bowling Green, Broadway-Lafayette, and High Street. Even the subway cars were not spared, with nine lines registering particle concentrations exceeding the EPA’s safety standard.

For many New Yorkers, like James Jean, 28, the palpable smoggy air in the subway stations is a daily concern. “It’s not really safe, it’s not really healthy. I’m pretty young so I’ll probably feel it in a couple of years,” Jean expresses.

Unfortunately, those who spend prolonged periods underground, such as subway workers, face the most significant exposure risk. Sean Morton, a 55-year-old MTA custodian who has worked at the 181st Street station for over a decade, voices his concerns. “You might not feel it until five, seven years later, that’s why I’m concerned,” Morton says.

While the MTA insists no health risks exist, the research findings have understandably sparked concerns. Masoud Ghandehari, the lead investigator, recommends the city should consider replacing the train’s wheel system with a rubber alternative to reduce the generation of iron particles.

So, what can we do as regular subway commuters? Let’s start by raising awareness about this issue. Share these findings with your friends, family, and social networks. Let’s ask for cleaner, healthier subways – because everyone in our city deserves a safe and sustainable commute. After all, a healthier city starts with each one of us. Let’s take this as a call to action to press for healthier air in our subways.

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