If a subway train operator finds that they cannot start their train and the emergency car lights are on, what is a logical assumption?

When a subway train operator is unable to start their train and notices that the emergency car lights are illuminated, it indicates that there is a situation requiring immediate attention. The activation of the emergency lights suggests that an emergency situation may have occurred that necessitated the use of the emergency alarm system.

In this context, the logical assumption is that the emergency alarm box was pulled. This action typically happens when passengers feel there is a danger or emergency on board, prompting them to alert the train operator. The lights turning on are a direct consequence of this alarm being triggered, indicating that the situation is serious enough to require the train operator's immediate response.

While mechanical failure, power supply issues, or passengers blocking doors could all be plausible issues that might prevent the train from starting, the specific scenario presented—where the emergency lights are on—strongly points towards an emergency situation initiated by a passenger action, rather than these other issues.