Irish Rail issue schedule update following collision on Mayo train line
Iarnród Éireann have closed the train line between Westport and Athlone today. Pic: iStock
Irish Rail have said the train line between Westport and Athlone will remain closed until further notice following a “serious incident” after a train and a car were involved in a collision in Co Mayo yesterday.
Replacement bus transfers will operate from Westport to Athlone this morning and the Ballina to Manulla services will operate through to Claremorris.
Services to and from Westport have been suspended following the crash, which was the second separate collision on Thursday involving a train and a vehicle on the line.
Irish Rail said the 6.15pm service from Heuston to Westport collided with a vehicle at a user-operated level crossing at Kiltybo in Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo, shortly before 9pm.
The operator said emergency services were responding to the incident and attending to a number of people who had been in the car.
It has been reported there are two people, who were occupants of the car, receiving treatment. No passengers on the train were injured.
Gardaí said they were at the scene, where the road has been closed and local diversions have been put in place.
In a post on X, Irish Rail said: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by yesterday's incidents.
“We’ll continue to do our best to provide clear and timely updates as info becomes available.
“A sincere thank you to all passengers/staff for your patience, understanding and cooperation during this challenging day.” Earlier in the afternoon, the 1.10pm Westport to Dublin Heuston service struck a tractor that was crossing the line in Co Offaly at around 3.50pm.
Gardaí said emergency services attended the scene at the Meelaghans near Tullamore, and that a man was brought to hospital for treatment of injuries that were not life-threatening.
