NZ - shunting accident injures tourist

[John Ashworth]

Toll admits error in shunting accident which injured tourist
5:00AM Wednesday February 13, 2008

A poorly secured flap on a container being transported through Dunedin's rail yards yesterday destroyed a pedestrian overbridge, injuring an Australian tourist.

Rail operator Toll Holdings has admitted its error in the crash, which occurred about 4.50pm.

The container had been collapsed so it could fit under the 104-year-old footbridge but the collapsible equipment malfunctioned and part of the container lifted, striking the middle section of the bridge as the shunt train passed beneath it, Toll spokeswoman Sue Foley told the Otago Daily Times.

Ms Foley said Toll had serious concerns about the incident. An investigation, involving all necessary authorities, would begin immediately.

The 17-year-old tourist received minor injuries after she fell about 4.5m from the bridge. About three other people were on undamaged sections of the bridge which runs between Castle St and Thomas Burns St.

St John Ambulance regional operations manager Doug Third said the teenager was taken to Dunedin Hospital with minor scrapes and bruises to her head, shoulder and leg.

Three British tourists who were walking down the stairs nearest the railway station said they heard a massive crack.

Tim Wagg, of Manchester, said he heard a "ridiculously loud" noise and looked back to see the bridge destroyed.

Dunedin City Council city environment general manager Tony Avery said council workers would decide today whether the bridge could be repaired.

- NZPA

This story was found at: http://www.nzherald.co.nz/category/stor ... d=10492162