Hundreds of vehicles were damaged and traffic came to a standstill after sharp metal fragments were strewn across a major motorway north of Sydney early May 2 morning.
Around 5 a.m., a truck reportedly lost a load of steel debris along more than 25 kilometres of the southbound lanes on the M1 Motorway. The debris punctured tyres on up to 380 vehicles, leaving thousands of drivers stranded.
Howard Collins, coordinator-general at Transport NSW, said approximately 300 vehicles were affected after about 750 kilograms of metal fell from the truck.
“The highway was closed as soon as possible once we got the right resources there about 6:30am,” Collins said.
“With support from the police, we’ve managed to escort some heavy trucks through, but southbound lanes remain shut. Cleaning the motorway will take several more hours.”
Motorists were urged to stay off the road unless necessary, with tailbacks stretching up to 40 kilometres.
Collins also warned those who had passed through the area between 5:00 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. to check their tyres, even if no damage was visible.
“These metal shards are small but sharp and could lead to later failure,” he said.
No Fatalities, Free Towing Offered
He confirmed that towing services would be free for affected motorists.“It is important that we support those who suffered multiple tyre failures.”
Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said the clean-up was proving difficult due to the size and spread of the debris.
“It’s like trying to hoover up the highway,” she said. “This is an unprecedented situation … We’re very lucky we haven’t had a fatality.”
Acting Superintendent Thomas Barnes said a police investigation is underway.
“We’re very lucky that we didn’t have a fatality or serious injury this morning, when it quite easily could have occurred.”
