Police rescue tram passengers high above New York

NEW YORK (Reuters) – New York police conducted an all-night
rescue operation on Wednesday for scores of passengers stranded
for hours on two commuter tramcars stalled high above the city.

The gondolas — one suspended over Manhattan with 22 riders
and another hovering over the East River with 47 people —
unexpectedly came to a stop at 5:22 p.m. (2122 GMT) on Tuesday,
police said, due to a mechanical problem or electrical outage.

“Then a backup generator misfunctioned as well, which
required the police department to begin rescue efforts,” said
police spokesman Martin Speechley. No injuries were reported.

By early on Wednesday, police had removed most of the
passengers from the gondola above the East River, using a metal
cage hoisted alongside the tramcar, according to news reports.

“It could take a number of more hours to get everyone else
to safety because we’re not rushing things,” Speechley said.
“In the meantime, there have been no injuries, passengers are
in good spirits, and we’re supplying them with food and
drinks.”

The tram makes regular 4-1/2 minute commuter runs between
Manhattan and nearby Roosevelt Island and is noted for its
spectacular views 250 feet above the East River.