NEWS FROM THE SCENE.

Shannon News, 10 July 1923, Page 2

NEWS FROM THE SCENE.

PROMPT RELIEF MEASURES. One of the most appalling disasters in the history of the New Zealand Railways occurred at 5.50 a.m. on Friday, Avlien tlio Main Trunk Express, leaving Auckland at seven o’clock Thursday night, ran into a slip a mile south of Ongarue, which is fifteen miles north of Taumarumui. The accident happened a s the down train was travelling at express speed. Three carriages were telescoped and the engine practically buried in the debris. As soon as news of the disaster reached Taumarunui relief measures were taken. Two trains were sent to the scene. One left at 6.30 a.m. with doctors, nuirses, chemists, stretchers and other equipment. Another train left at seven with more equipment and another doctor is expected at Tau marunui' at 9.30 a.m. Arrangements have been 'made for the care of the injured. There is accommodation for eighteen in the loca] hospital, but private individuals have offered their homes and the services of motor cars- have been requisitioned as ambulances.