Erasmus Bridge reopens after Rotterdam tram collision
July 23, 2026
Photo: Depositphotos.com
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The Erasmus Bridge in Rotterdam reopened to all traffic on Wednesday evening after the two badly damaged trams which collided on it that morning were lifted clear of the tracks, broadcaster NOS reported. Trams are running over the bridge again.
Fifteen people were injured, one of them seriously, when a moving tram ran into the back of a stationary one waiting for the bridge to close, regional broadcaster Rijnmond reported.
The salvage operation took most of the day, with the trams having to be cut apart, RET director Linda Boot told the broadcaster.
Three investigations are now under way. Police are examining the crash, including with a drone team, transport company RET is carrying out its own inquiry, and the Dutch Safety Board has begun a preliminary investigation to decide whether to open a full one.
RET said initial checks showed the driver of the rear tram had not been under the influence of alcohol or drugs. He was among those taken to hospital. Boot said it was too early to speculate about the cause.
Rotterdam mayor Carola Schouten visited the scene and called it “a terrible accident”. No further information has been released about the condition of those hurt.
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