UNUSUAL MISHAP

Timaru Herald, Volume CLIII, Issue 22471, 5 January 1943, Page 2

UNUSUAL MISHAP

Engine Hits Support Of Footbridge Traffic Disorganised (N.Z.P.A.) AUCKLAND. Jan. 4 Derailed when approaching the Ellerslie railway station this afternoon the light engine of the AucklandPapakura train struck the stone support of the overhead footbridge on the left side and caused the footbridge to collapse on the engine The front bogies of the engine left the track completely and the front wheels of the leading car were also derailed, but only one passenger suffered slight scratches. The left side of the engine was fairly extensively damaged, and the platforms on the first and second of the six carriages were smashed. The gas main carried by the overhead bridge was broken, but leaks were blocked by' a repair gang. The inner rail on the track was stalled and a gang was engaged in laying the line preparatory to lifting the engine. A large breakdown crane was sent to remove the broken bridge and lift the engine and the first car back on to the line. Occurring at the peak time, the accident disorganised the whole of the south suburban services between Auckland and Papakura. via Newmarket. As only one line could be used at Ellerslie some trains were delayed as much as 35 minutes. The cause of the derailment will be the subject of an in vestiga tion.