‘Kissing trams’ cause rush-hour travel chaos
A METROLINK collision – described as ‘two trams kissing’ – which caused severe delays on the network will be referred to the rail watchdog.
Two Metrolink vehicles bumped into each other at the St Peter’s Square tram stop yesterday morning.
The collision was widely described as a ‘kiss’ after images were shared on social media.
Shortly afterwards all Metrolink services were suspended, causing transport chaos for hundreds of commuters during rush hour.
Transport for Greater Manchester has confirmed no passengers or drivers were injured in the smash.
But a full investigation into the incident and what, if any lessons can be learned, will now be carried out by the Rail Accident Investigation Board (RAIB).
An official apology was issued by Transport for Greater Manchester’s head of Metrolink, Danny Vaughan, who said the incident will be looked into by the RAIB.
He said: “Shortly before 8.30am two trams were involved in a low-speed collision at St Peter’s Square. Thankfully we have not received any reports of injuries but I’d like to apologise to those on board.
“I’d also like to apologise to our other passengers on the network whose journey was delayed and disrupted as a result.
“I emphasised to the operator the absolute urgency in which they needed to get services running and also ensure a meticulous and swift investigation into this incident is carried out.
“The matter will also be referred to the Rail Accident Investigation Board in due course, as is normal practice in such circumstances.”