TRAIN DERAILED

Dominion, Volume 21, Issue 302, 21 September 1928, Page 11

TRAIN DERAILED

MAIN TRUNK TRAFFIC DISORGANISED NORTH-BOUND LIMITED BLOCKED Dominion Special Service. Palmerston North, September 20. A railway derailment causing the complete disorganisation of traffic north of Palmerston North on the Main Trunk line occurred about 9.10 o’clock to-night, when a mixed passenger and goods trains travelling from Wanganui to Palmerston North left the line near Kelvin Grove. The railway authorities are reticent as to the cause of the accident but, as the engine did not leave the track it would seem that either an axle of one of the following trucks broke or a truck jumped the points, but the passengers relate that the experience was one of slight jolting. Tlie train was a lengthy one, and fourteen trucks left the rails, and tore up the lino for a distance of approximately 100 yards to such effect that it was apparent that it would be impossible for the Limited to get through. This was soon appreciated by the railway aiP' orities, and passengers on the express received a surprise when they were informed well on the south side of Palmerston that they would have to spend the n 1 ’ here.

Relief gangs were soon despatched to the spot and will be working until it is possible for traffic to pass, but when this will be is not at present ascertainable. The scene of the mishap was about three miles from Palmerston North and the train was running half an hour late. The damage caused by the derailed trucks, together with the general wreckage formed in a few minutes, have made a task that will take a considerable while to repair. The line for a considerable distance resembles an unskilfully ploughed field and, seen in a half light, gives an impression of serious disaster. As it was, however, the passengers suffered nothing worse than the interruption of their journey so impressively. Cars for their conveyance were immediately despatched from Palmerston when news of the derailment was received.