MBTA evaluating system for faulty cables after Blue Line evacuation

The MBTA's general manager says a decades-old cable forced an electrical shutdown and the evacuation of nearly 500 Blue Line passengers in the harbor tunnel on Tuesday.

Phil Eng says the T is now evaluating the entire system for similar issues.

Eng told reporters on Wednesday the faulty cable, which he estimated to be 50 to 60 years old, “fell on top of a communication line." The issue was spotted by the Blue Line operator, who then stopped the train.

The electricity in the tunnel needed to be turned off before emergency responders could enter and begin evacuating riders who were stuck between the Maverick and Aquarium stations.

It took about an hour to evacuate about 500 riders, according to the Boston Fire Department.

Eng said the T is “actively” reviewing the infrastructure needs of its entire subway network.

“Our focus has been on the most urgent causes of delays — track work, rolling stock, signals — but we are aware of the aging cables,” Eng said.  “As we catch up on major priorities, we’re bringing these other needs into focus.”

Crediting the state legislature and Gov. Maura Healey for investing in the T, Eng said the transit authority is working to create a more reliable system.

“This isn’t something that turns around overnight, but continued investment will let us do more routine, less disruptive maintenance” he said.