Melbourne’s tram network is experiencing major disruptions this morning, after “explosions” rocked a St Kilda Rd tram just after the morning peak hour.
Yarra Trams confirmed overhead power lines came down on a tram at the intersection of St Kilda Rd and Toorak Rd at approximately 9:30am this morning, causing what witnesses described as a loud series of explosions.
Around 30 passengers were said to be on-board the tram at the time of the incident, with local workmen reportedly rushing over to help ferry people off the stricken tram. Billowing smoke was clearly visible from the scene, and eyewitnesses reported seeing flames shoot up the side of the tram, which sported a visible black scorch mark after firefighters extinguished the blaze.
Power line just hit tram to oral Rd and st Kildale rd pic.twitter.com/Bdec5Jewei
— TY (@timdyen) September 4, 2017
It’s believed no one was injured in the incident.
Yarra Trams have stated they are “investigating the cause” of the power line failure, and have warned of major delays to the tram network as emergency services and Yarra Trams officials work to secure and clear the scene.
Tram routes 1, 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67, and 72 are all affected in both directions, with no trams currently operating between the Arts Centre and St Kilda Junction.
