Table of Contents
- Rescue underway in the Central West after a cherry picker truck collides with a rail bridge
- Key points
- FAQs
Rescue underway in the Central West after a cherry picker truck collides with a rail bridge
Central West, NSW — A worker trapped after NSW rail bridge hit is at the centre of a rescue operation this morning in the Central West of New South Wales. Emergency services were called to Inch Street just before 9:00am after a cherry picker mounted on a truck struck a rail bridge, causing part of the structure to collapse and leaving one passenger trapped inside the vehicle's cabin.
First responders arrived to find two Sydney Trains workers on board the truck. The driver managed to free himself at the scene, but reports say the passenger remains trapped and crews are working to free them from the damaged cabin.
Emergency crews remain on site conducting a careful extraction operation. Authorities have urged motorists to avoid the area while rescue efforts continue and debris is cleared from the collapsed bridge.
What emergency services are doing
Fire and rescue teams, paramedics and other first responders are coordinating the extraction, prioritising the safety of the trapped worker and rescue personnel. The collapse occurred when the cherry picker struck the underside of the rail bridge, destabilising the structure.
Crews are using specialised equipment to access the cabin and free the passenger. Officials say the operation is ongoing and updates will be provided as the situation develops.
Official reaction
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns, who was making an announcement this morning about refurbished Tangara trains, acknowledged the incident and offered support.
“We're thinking about those workers, colleagues and family, and we're hoping for good news soon, but obviously that would be distressing for everybody involved.”
The premier’s comments reflect the immediate concern for the trapped worker and their family while authorities focus on the rescue.
Road and rail impacts
The rail bridge is currently out of operation and the surrounding road has been closed to traffic. Drivers are being urged to avoid Inch Street while emergency services manage the scene.
Local rail services may be disrupted until a full structural assessment is completed and debris is cleared. Commuters should expect delays and follow official advice on diversions.
Investigation and next steps
SafeWork and other relevant authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the collision once the immediate rescue is complete. The priority remains the safe recovery of the trapped worker, followed by an inspection of the bridge and an assessment of how the incident occurred.
An update on the rescue operation was scheduled for 4:00pm this afternoon, according to newsroom reports.
Key points
- Incident occurred just before 9:00am on Inch Street in the Central West of NSW.
- A cherry picker on a truck struck a rail bridge, causing a collapse.
- Two Sydney Trains workers were in the vehicle; the driver escaped, one passenger remained trapped.
- Emergency services are conducting an extraction; the bridge and road are closed.
- SafeWork will investigate after rescue operations conclude.
FAQs
Where did the incident happen?
The collision occurred on Inch Street in the Central West of New South Wales, where a cherry picker truck struck a rail bridge.
Were there injuries?
One of the two Sydney Trains workers remained trapped inside the truck cabin and rescue teams are working to free them. The driver managed to free himself at the scene.
What is the current status of the bridge and road?
The rail bridge is currently not in operation and the surrounding road has been closed. Drivers are being urged to avoid the area while emergency crews work and inspections take place.
Will there be an investigation?
Yes. SafeWork and relevant authorities are expected to investigate the collision and any safety or operational factors once the primary rescue and clearance are complete.
When will there be an update?
A further update on the rescue operation was scheduled for 4:00pm this afternoon, according to reports from the newsroom.
The information in this article has been adapted from mainstream news sources and video reports published on official channels. Watch the full video here Worker trapped after truck hits NSW rail bridge | 7NEWS
