A Bee Network double-decker bus was left wedged under a low-level bridge on Weston Street in Bolton on Tuesday morning, creating a dramatic scene that fortunately resulted in no injuries.
The incident, which occurred around 10 a.m., involved a bus returning to its depot. No passengers were aboard at the time.
Bridge Collision Shocks Witnesses
Eyewitness Arfan Khan described the chaotic moment to the Manchester Evening News: “I heard this noise, and I looked up, and the bus was under the bridge. It was like screeching, banging, and glass breaking. The driver was in absolute shock and panicking. He turned purple and blue. I really felt for him.”
Khan’s account highlights the driver’s distress following the collision, which temporarily disrupted traffic as rescue crews worked to free the vehicle from under the bridge. Greater Manchester Police confirmed that no injuries were reported.
Road Closures and Social Media Reactions
The incident led to temporary road closures, causing minor traffic delays in the area. A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: “At around 10 a.m. on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, we were called to reports of a single-vehicle road traffic collision on Weston Street in Bolton. No injuries were reported, and the road was reopened after the vehicle was removed.”
Images of the stranded bus circulated widely on social media, sparking humorous comments. On the “Our Bolton” Facebook page, users shared lighthearted remarks.
“You can’t park there, pal,” quipped Luke Enty, while another user, John Rushton, joked, “You don’t normally see a bus delivering a bridge.”
Investigation Underway
The Bee Network, in collaboration with the bus operator, has launched an investigation to determine how the collision occurred. Stephen Rhodes, Director of Bus at Transport for Greater Manchester, expressed concern about the incident.
“In this case, the bus was not in service, and there were no passengers on board. While we are relieved that no one was hurt, we are naturally concerned about the incident and are working with the operator to understand the circumstances of the collision,” Rhodes said.
Lessons for the Future
Bridge strikes involving buses are relatively rare but can be costly and disruptive. This incident underscores the importance of route awareness and adherence to clearance limits, especially when vehicles are not following their standard service routes.
Although this mishap caused no injuries, it has prompted discussions about infrastructure and operational safety, with many calling for better signage and training to prevent similar accidents in the future.
For now, the incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable challenges faced by drivers and the importance of maintaining composure under pressure.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
