On Oct. 4, two teenage girls were found dead atop a J train in Brooklyn. The New York Times reported that the incident was likely a case of subway surfing. 

Beyond the impulsive acts, there is a deeper question to be asked: if there are so many kids drawn to this activity, why hasn’t the city done more to understand the root of the problem? The city needs to dig deeper as to why people subway surf despite knowing the risks.

Subway surfing is a dangerous trend where people ride on top of a moving train.  It’s commendable that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority recognizes this problem, but its approach is foolish. 

Public awareness campaigns such as “Ride Inside, Stay Alive” and celebrity endorsements aren’t enough to stop kids from risking their lives. Teenagers know subway surfing is dangerous, but they don’t think about its deadly consequences. The more parents or adults tell kids not to do something, the more they are inclined to do it.

Increased surveillance from police officers at train stations may prevent some incidents, but the NYPD cannot do this alone. The city needs to do more to engage with schools and neighborhoods. Counselors and speakers should go to schools and talk to students about the harmful social media trends, peer pressure, impulsivity and dangers of subway surfing. 

Additionally, Gov. Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams need to allocate more funds to communities to create safer recreational spaces for young students. 

The city needs to give kids more exciting and safe activities and a sense of belonging to prevent them from engaging in activities that put their lives at risk. 

The tragedy on the J train shouldn’t be just another statistic to the MTA. It’s a sign that the current approach isn’t working. New York City can do better. The city owes younger generations a chance at life and enjoyment in safer creative outlets.