TRAM services have been resumed across Greater Manchester after a "major communications failure" sparked hours of travel chaos.
Transport bosses had been forced to shut down the entire Metrolink network because of the fault, which prevented any announcements being made at stops.
The failure, which occurred at about 11.30am, also meant that the network control room staff were not able to monitor tram movements or access information displays.
Replacement Metrolink bus services are in operation from Shudehill to Bury. Limited stops at Prestwich, Whitefield and Bury.
— TfGM (@OfficialTfGM) April 25, 2016
All services are now running again, but TfGM officials have warned to expect severe delays.
A Metrolink spokesman said: "Engineers have now identified and rectified the fault which brought trams to halt earlier today and safety critical systems are now coming back on line – but services are expected to be disrupted throughout the evening.
UPDATE - Metrolink services have now resumed across the network. We are currently experiencing severe delays on all lines.
— Manchester Metrolink (@MCRMetrolink) April 25, 2016
"Replacement bus services will remain in place and Metrolink tickets are being accepted on Northern and Transpennine Express rail services. Line by line information can be found on the Metrolink website – www.metrolink.co.uk.
"A 12 minute service will be restored throughout the evening peak."
Peter Cushing, Metrolink Director, said: “It’s good news that the issue has been identified and resolved and I’d like to apologise to anyone who has been affected by today’s network issues.
“We are now concentrating on getting services back up and running as quickly as possible and we are aiming to restore a 12 minute service across all lines this evening.”
Customers are advised to monitor the Metrolink and TfGM Twitter accounts for further information.
Anyone in urgent need of advice or information can call customer relations staff on 0161 205 2000.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel