A tram overhead cable came loose and sparked what witnesses described as an explosion in Birmingham city centre on Tuesday afternoon, prompting a police and fire service response near Corporation Street.
Witness describes narrow escape
Bystander Ian Collins said he was glad to be alive after he had to leap to safety when the cable broke free. The incident occurred near Lower Bull Street and Corporation Street, disrupting West Midlands Metro services between St Chads and Edgbaston Village.
Mr Collins wrote on social media: "Earlier today on Corporation Street, right outside the Square Peg in Birmingham, a tram cable came loose and hit the ground just as I was walking by.
"I heard a loud explosion, and as it hit the floor, I called the police to report it and have them seal off the area. While I was on the phone, there was another explosion. The cable actually lit up in a massive thunderous blast. I had to run and dive out of the way. I'm so glad to be alive."
Emergency response and service disruption
West Midlands Police confirmed officers were dispatched to assist personnel from the West Midlands Fire Service. Tram passengers were allowed to use their tickets on local bus services.
The West Midlands Metro announced shortly before 5pm: "Due to overhead line damage near Lower Bull Street there is currently no service between St Chads and Edgbaston Village. Trams are operating between the St Chads and Wolverhampton. This is to complete an emergency switching program in that area so the tram line needs to be clear. We apologise for any inconvenience caused to your journey."
Ticket acceptance was arranged with National Express West Midlands between Bull Street and Edgbaston Village, including buses 23, 24, 126, 9, X10, X8, 12, and 13. Several National Express services were temporarily rerouted but later returned to their usual routes.
