Sydney train network severely disrupted after a power cable collapse

A high voltage power cable collapsed onto a stationary train standing close to Strathfield Station on May 20,2025. This has severely disrupted Sydney’s railway system. Around 300 people are believed to be stuck on a train for several hours, following the collapse. The incident took place during the morning rush hour and caused significant delays in the city's railway.

A high voltage cable, serving several train lines, including the T1 North Shore, T2 Inner West & Leppington, T3 Bankstown and T8 Airport & South was the cable that struck. Major delays and stoppage of service on these lines has impacted thousands of people.

Howard Collins, coordinator general of Transport for NSW explained in a press conference “The power connection device on the train has collided with a number of wires, the overhead wire system”.


Emergency personnel from Transport for NSW were prompt to arrive at the scene to carry out emergency evacuations with help of local authorities. About 300 people are still stuck on the train and power is still down at several places as per the recent updates, while help is underway to ensure safety.

No injuries have been reported so far. The emergency personnel have also taken strict safety measures and have isolated the impacted area. Work is underway to reduce the possibility of an electrical shock from the fallen cable.

The cause of the cable collapse is still being investigated by authorities. Transport for NSW has stressed how such accidents can take place even under strict maintenance plans.

"We'll find out why this incident occurred … it is too early to say was it the rain, or is it something to do with the overhead wiring system or has there been something else that has got caught up in the overhead wire itself," Collins said.

The authorities are also constantly reassuring the public about safety precautions being taken and the service should be restored by Tuesday night.
Furthermore, commuters are being advised to prepare for the delays and stay informed of changes about train schedules.