Commuter delays in Laois due to vehicle hitting bridge
So called bridge strikes are a relatively regular occurrence in Portlaoise
Irish Rail says services have resumed with delays after a bridge was struck by a vehicle in Laois.
“Services have resumed through Portlaoise following a vehicle striking a bridge in the area. Delays of up to +40mins can be expected as a result,” Irish Rail posted on social media.
The incident occurred in Portlaoise this afternoon. So called "bridge strikes" cause road traffic and rail delays. Irish Rail is required to inspect bridges after such collisions leading to delays for rail users.
In recent years, Irish Rail had issued a tender for a high vehicle warning system for rail bridges on the Mountrath and Mountmellick Roads but the system has not been installed.
The Leinster Express/ Laois Live repeatedly attempted to contact the Irish Rail/Iarnród Éireann in relation to bridge strikes and the planned warning system for Laois in recent weeks but Irish Rail has not responded to any queries.