have they faced any mishaps?
Yes, on June 22, 2009, two Metrorail trains collided between the Takoma and Fort Totten Metro stations, killing nine.
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
 On June 22, 2009, two Metrorail trains collided between the Takoma and Fort Totten Metro stations, killing nine.
how did district of columbia get its name UNANSWERABLE is it known by any other name? D.C. or Washington. what is it most famous for? The capital city of the United States of America. are criminal activities frequent here? A 2010 study found that 5% percent of city blocks accounted for more than 25% of the district's total crimes. what are some of the common means of public transport here? Metro and airport, to name a few. who maintains the former? The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority. when did the above mentioned rail begin its operations here? Mid-19th century.
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Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority [SEP] Safety
In recent years, WMATA has drawn criticism for a neglect of safety in both its rail and bus systems. Problems include failures within the system designed to prevent train collisions and escalators failing or breaking apart while in service. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has recommended that WMATA invest $1 billion in needed safety improvements. A December 2008 report by the WMATA Inspector General documented that Metro's System Safety and Risk Management Office was bypassed when changes were made to Metrorail's operating procedures, even though that office's review and approval was required as a matter of policy. On June 22, 2009, two Metrorail trains collided between the Takoma and Fort Totten Metro stations, killing nine.