Traffic chaos erupts in Melbourne after burst water pipe cuts power to thousands
A burst water main caused traffic chaos and left thousands of people without power in Melbourne’s CBD.
VicTraffic said the “major power outage” had led to 40 traffic lights going out in the Melbourne CBD, East Melbourne and South Yarra.
VicTraffic wrote on social media: “When traffic lights are not working, you should follow the same rules at a junction with a stop or yield sign or line.”
Citipower and Powercor said in a statement that the burst water main flooded a public car park at 32-60 Little Collins Street.
Water entered the substation located in the basement of the facility, causing the site’s electricity to be cut off for safety reasons.
About 10,000 customers were initially disconnected in the south-eastern suburbs.
Power has since been restored to 4,000 customers.
Citipower said about 5,700 customers were without power.
“Our crews are on site and working to remove the water,” Citipower said in a statement.
“This will provide safe access to the district substation so any damage can be assessed.”
Customers are reminded to expect updates via SMS or by visiting the Citipower website.
