Rotterdam Tram Accident Today: 15 Injured After Two RET Trams Collide on Erasmus Bridge
A serious tram accident occurred in Rotterdam on Wednesday morning when two RET trams collided on the Erasmus Bridge, leaving at least 15 people injured and prompting a major emergency response in the city center. Authorities quickly rushed to the scene, where firefighters, paramedics, and police worked together to rescue passengers and assist the injured.
The collision happened at approximately 11:10 a.m. when one tram traveling from the city center struck the rear of another tram that had stopped in front of the open Erasmus Bridge. The impact caused significant damage, with one tram derailing and debris, shattered glass, and tram components scattering across the bridge. Two nearby vehicles were also reportedly damaged during the crash.
Emergency responders treated several passengers at the scene while others were transported to nearby hospitals for further medical care. One individual became trapped inside the wreckage and had to be freed by firefighters before being taken to the hospital. Officials later confirmed that at least one person sustained critical injuries, while several others suffered injuries ranging from minor to serious.
Following the collision, authorities shut down the Erasmus Bridge to all traffic as investigators began examining the scene. Power to the overhead tram lines was disconnected to allow emergency crews to work safely and remove the damaged vehicles.
RET officials expressed their shock over the incident and extended their thoughts to everyone affected. The transport company stated that the cause of the collision remains under investigation. Officials also noted that the trams are equipped with a dead man’s switch, a safety feature designed to stop the vehicle automatically if the operator releases the control.
The accident comes just over a year after another collision involving two RET trams in Rotterdam’s city center, where several passengers were also injured.
As investigators continue their work, authorities are expected to provide additional information regarding the cause of the crash and the condition of those injured. Residents are advised to avoid the area while recovery operations and the investigation remain ongoing.
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