Crane Collapse on Sydney’s M5 Motorway Triggers Widespread Chaos and Closures
Crane topples, halts traffic across M5
Chaos erupted on Sydney’s busy M5 Motorway on Tuesday morning when a crane rolled onto its side, triggering widespread road closures and sending one man to hospital. The incident brought traffic to a grinding halt and damaged key infrastructure in the M5 East Tunnel.
Structural damage causes full shutdown
Around 11:30am, the crane toppled onto its side, causing significant damage to one of the motorway’s walls. The impact ripped interior piping from the structure, scattering debris across the roadway and forcing authorities to shut down all lanes in both directions.
Commuters warned of major disruption
Motorists were urged to avoid the area, with closures stretching from General Holmes Drive westbound and Bexley Road citybound. LiveTraffic NSW confirmed partial reopening around 1:30pm but warned drivers of severe delays and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h in the area of the crash.
On-ramp remains closed
“The M5 East on-ramp from Marsh St is still closed,” a LiveTraffic NSW update stated, indicating continued disruption throughout the afternoon.
Emergency crews on scene
Photos from the scene showed the crane lying on its side, with emergency and recovery crews working to contain the situation. Meanwhile, detour routes were implemented, including the D5 detour, with citybound traffic diverted via the King Georges Road off-ramp.
On-ramp shutdowns expand
The closures included the Marsh Street westbound on-ramp and the citybound Kingsgrove Road on-ramp, further impacting commuter traffic across Sydney. The westbound lanes had been reopened partially by mid-afternoon, though full access remained restricted.
Motorway access remains limited
“Westbound lanes of the motorway are closed from General Holmes Drive, while citybound lanes remain closed from Bexley Road,” LiveTraffic NSW stated again, emphasizing the ongoing severity of the disruption.
Transport for NSW advises detours
Transport for NSW confirmed that emergency services and response crews were at the site. Their advice to drivers was clear: “Motorists are advised to avoid the area and can consider using the D5 detour instead in both directions.”
Timeline for reopening still unclear
As of Tuesday afternoon, no timeline had been provided for when the motorway would fully reopen. The impact of the crash extended beyond just traffic, prompting major delays for businesses and commuters relying on this vital transport corridor.
One injured in incident
NSW Ambulance reported that a man in his 20s was treated on-site before being transported to St George Hospital in stable condition. His injuries, while non-life-threatening, underscored the seriousness of the crash.
No estimate for full recovery
“Due to the nature of the incident, there is no forecast as to when all lanes will reopen,” said a Transport NSW spokesperson.
Broader issues highlighted
This crane accident highlights the vulnerability of Sydney’s road network to unexpected events. The M5 Motorway plays a crucial role in connecting key areas across the city, and any disruption has immediate ripple effects for thousands.
Authorities assess damage and plan recovery
As cleanup efforts continue and structural assessments take place, authorities are working to ensure the motorway can safely reopen. For now, commuters are being advised to seek alternative routes and remain patient as Sydney navigates another significant transport challenge.
