Multi-vehicle collision on Princes Freeway leaves Victorian commuters in traffic chaos

Fed-up commuters are experiencing serious delays on a major freeway after a multi-vehicle collision.

One Melbourne-bound lane has reopened after multiple early-morning collisions on the Princes Freeway, but massive delays exceeding two hours remain for many motorists.

Traffic has backed up for kilometres after a truck rollover, with commuters warned to expect lengthy delays.

Two Melbourne-bound lanes remain closed to traffic between the Princes Highway, Werribee and Duncans Rd.

Drivers have been told that delays are exceeding two hours and there remains significant congestion on the alternative route through Werribee.

Commutes travelling between Geelong and Melbourne have been encouraged to save time by detouring via Bacchus Marsh and the Western Freeway.

Travellers were also asked to consider travelling into the city using the train.

The backed up traffic on Wednesday morning. Picture: Supplied

All Melbourne-bound lanes of the Princes Freeway were closed on Wednesday morning.

The Victorian Department of Transport urged drivers travelling between Geelong and Melbourne on Wednesday morning to consider alternative options.

It is understood that a truck rollover and multi-vehicle collision caused the delay.

Victoria Police is investigating. and working to control the incident.

Social media users pointed to this expansion joint as a possible reason for the spate of overnight incidents. Picture: Supplied

A police spokesperson said in a statement the collisions had been cleared, however the diversions remained in place.

“It is understood issues with the road contributed to the collisions, which occurred about 4.20am,” the spokesperson said.

Traffic was backed up for kilometres. Picture: Supplied

Commuters have been told to expect delays of at least 90 minutes.

“No one was injured.”

Urgent repairs are under way to get the road operational as soon as it is safe.

It has been reported that a metal plate came loose from overnight roadworks, leading to the collision.

Aerial footage shows traffic backed up along the road as commuters travel into the city.

More to come.