RAILWAY MISHAP.

Otago Witness, Issue 3613, 12 June 1923, Page 32

RAILWAY MISHAP.

ACCIDENT TO MAIN TRUNK EXPRESS. WELLINGTON. June 9. The Main Trunk express, which left at 12.45 to-day for Auckland, stopped in the first tunnel owing to the derailment of the postal van, next the engine, through a mishap to the coupling. The two following carriages were also partially derailed. These oars were empty. No one was hurt. The lino will probably be clear by 4 p.m. The incoming passengers are being brought from Ngaio by the department in motor cars. Juno 10. Owing to the postal van of the northbound express being derailed and subsequently capsizing it was not until 5.30 in the evening that the Auckland and other expresses reached Wellington. The effect of the mishap was quickly realised by the Traffic Department, which promptly arranged an extensive motor service to Johnsonville and enabled passengers to be brought to town. The postal car was badly smashed. It was stated that a portion of the drawgear broke, causing another portion to drop. The north-bound trains were considerably delayed, and all the suburban trains in that direction had to be suspended. It is generally admitted as extremely fortunate that no further damage was caused. It was a lucky escape from a very serious accident.