WASHINGTON (CBSDC/AP) — About 2,000 passengers on Metro’s green line were stranded for hours on trains after emergency responders accidentally shut down power while handling a track fire.

The incident Wednesday evening caused major problems beginning about 5 p.m. Lights and air circulation were shut off on two trains waiting between Navy Yard and Anacostia.

After the power went out, Metro says as many as 150 passengers from one train evacuated themselves, walking onto the track bed. Metro says that’s dangerous because power was live on another track. Emergency personnel helped passengers evacuate through a vent shaft.

Fire officials say three people were taken to hospitals after the incident. One was listed in serious condition.

Some passengers say Metro provided no safety procedures during the incident. Others complained of the long wait for shuttle bus service between stations.

Train service was restored at 7:15 p.m.

@WNEWNews @WNEWTraffic RT @Tonya50: @thejuliewright no bus in sight it's dumb crazy out here yfrog.com/obspvpdjj—
Julie Wright (@thejuliewright) January 30, 2013

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