Advertisement

Terrified passengers flee as Melbourne tram explodes on busy street

Footage of a falling powerline hitting a tram in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD has been released online, showing terrified passengers running for cover.

A bystander captured the dramatic moment sparks began to shoot out from the front of the tram on Flinders Street during a busy Thursday evening in late November.

Several loud bangs can be heard in quick succession before the doors open and dozens of passengers stream onto the street.

Sparks shot out of the front of the tram while it was travelling down Flinders Street in Melbourne's CBD. Photo: YouTube
Sparks shot out of the front of the tram while it was travelling down Flinders Street in Melbourne's CBD. Photo: YouTube
Smoke poured out of the top of the vehicle as passengers rushed to evacuate. Photo: YouTube
Smoke poured out of the top of the vehicle as passengers rushed to evacuate. Photo: YouTube

As they dash to the side of the road, two more bangs fill the air prompting screams from one woman who ducks down as she runs.

“Oh my God,” another woman cries.

Yarra Tram officials clear the roads surrounding the tram, as crowds quickly gather to watch in curiosity.

Dozens of passengers rush to safety on the side of the road. Photo: YouTube
Dozens of passengers rush to safety on the side of the road. Photo: YouTube

A Yarra Trams spokesperson said no-one was injured in the November 17 incident, but services were down for close to four hours afterwards.

She confirmed there was no malfunction with the tram itself, and all systems were up and running again by the following morning.