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Why are NYC subway fare gates failing?
The new automated fare gates introduced as part of a major upgrade are experiencing technical glitches and mechanical failures. These issues have led to safety incidents, with some riders getting stuck or injured. The system is still in testing, and while designed to prevent fare evasion, the technology has not yet been fully reliable.
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How safe are the new OMNY fare gates?
Safety concerns have been raised after reports of riders getting stuck or injured at the new gates. While OMNY aims to modernize fare payment, the current hardware and software glitches pose risks. Transit officials are working to address these issues, but riders should remain cautious and report any problems immediately.
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What should riders do if they get stuck or injured at a fare gate?
If you experience problems at a fare gate, notify station staff immediately. Do not attempt to force the gate open or bypass it. The MTA recommends reporting any safety incidents to ensure they are addressed promptly and to help improve the system for everyone.
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Will the fare gate problems delay the phase-out of MetroCards?
Despite the ongoing issues with the new gates, the MetroCard is being phased out as planned. The transition to OMNY is largely complete, with over 90% of trips now paid via contactless methods. However, technical problems may slow down the full rollout of the new system, but the MetroCard will eventually be retired.
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Are the new fare gates easier to bypass than the old ones?
Some reports suggest that the new gates are more vulnerable to bypass attempts due to their design and technical flaws. This has led to increased fare evasion in some stations. Transit authorities are working to improve security and reliability to prevent fare skipping.
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What are the benefits of the new OMNY system despite these issues?
OMNY offers a faster, contactless way to pay fares, reducing wait times and improving convenience for riders. It also provides a modern payment platform that can be integrated with smartphones and other devices, aligning NYC with global transit systems. The benefits aim to outweigh the current technical challenges as the system continues to improve.