Belair rail commuters stranded as stopped train causes chaos

Multiple passenger trains and cars are halted after a freight train stopped on the Belair line during peak hour. One level cross has been reopened. Picture: ABC

A stopped freight train on the Belair line is causing peak-hour traffic chaos in the inner southern suburbs.

AdelaideMetro is scrambling to resolve the issue with a privately operated train, which is blocking major intersections and has halted a number of passenger trains using the same line.

A freight train has been stopped on the Belair line at Hawthorn/Lower Mitcham for the last 20 minutes. Boom gates stuck down at multiple crossings. Avoid area if you can! @abcadelaidepic.twitter.com/Fcr4FufLRg

— Alina Eacott (@AlinaEacott) May 26, 2021

The line is shared by freight trains and the Overland, on the main route to Melbourne.

Motorists reported long delays from around 4.30pm, especially at the intersection of Cross Rd and the rail line.

A Transport Department spokesman at 5.20pm reported the Cross Rd level crossing had been reopened.

The train is still blocking the road crossing where Wattlebury Rd intersects with Belair Rd at Lower Mitcham and at Sussex Tce at Hawthorn.

Both are expected to be opened and traffic cleared within the next 30 minutes.

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