An unexpected accident occurred near Limerick this morning, as a mail train from Ennis traveling across a bridge over the Shannon River, two miles outside the city, experienced a derailment. One of the train’s vehicles left the rails, resulting in a significant breakdown that brought all traffic on the bridge to a standstill.

Luckily, the train was moving at a slow speed while crossing the bridge, which helped to minimize the severity of the incident and kept the train on the permanent way. As a consequence of the disruption, transportation officials had to quickly arrange alternative methods to deliver mail and passengers to their destinations, with road transfers becoming necessary.

An investigation into the cause of the derailment is likely to be conducted in order to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. The quick response by authorities in rerouting passengers and mail demonstrates the resilience needed to address unexpected situations in the transportation sector. Maintaining the safety and efficiency of such vital links is paramount, and the lessons learned from this accident will undoubtedly be applied going forward to ensure smoother, safer travel experiences for all.

Manchester Evening News – Saturday 14 September 1901