On December 1, 1913, the Southern Hemisphere's first subway line opened in Buenos Aires. At the time it was only 11 km in length. It greatly aided in alleviating the traffic congestion in the rapidly growing city.
Until today, yes today, Linea A has moved over 200,000 people each day. Today, the line is closing for a two month period for upgrading and new carriages, and Jeem decided to take a ride, back and forth on the Linea A. Several times.
The stations along the route tend to be old. Slightly darker than the others and there is a feeling of falling back into time. It seems safe enough, but Jeem kept wondering, "Is that Tommy Dorsey playing on the speakers?"
The carriages are darker too, and feature wooden seats and benches. They were built in Belgium before being put into use on the Subte. There is significant nostalgia for the old cars and they are an amazing piece of subway history.
It can be darker than most subway cars we are used to riding. Quite a bit darker.
In two months, give or take, BA will have new carriages for Linea A. They will be safer, brighter, and built in China. And that is unfortunate for Canada's Bombardier. But portenos will celebrate.
Photos by Jeem. Copyright 2013 by Jim Murray.
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