On April 29, 2025, at approximately 7:45 AM, a serious collision occurred between two trams at the de Gaulle roundabout in Warsaw, leading to significant disruptions in tram services and multiple injuries.
The incident involved tram lines 7 and 9, which were traveling towards plac Zawiszy when one tram rear-ended the other. According to Witold Urbanowicz, spokesperson for Tramwaje Warszawskie, 13 people were reported injured, including the driver of the first tram. However, reports from Meditrans, the regional ambulance service, later indicated that the number of injured had risen to 19, with 11 individuals requiring hospitalization.
Victims of the collision ranged in age from 12 to 62 years old, with many suffering from head injuries, a common concern in such accidents. The collision not only resulted in injuries but also led to a complete blockage of tram traffic in the area surrounding the de Gaulle roundabout and along Aleje Jerozolimskie and Nowy Świat.
According to reports, the emergency response involved six medical teams working on-site to assist the injured. The police were also quick to respond, with Sergeant Paweł Chmura from the Warsaw Police confirming that they are investigating the circumstances of the incident. Preliminary reports indicated that both tram drivers were tested for alcohol, and both were found to be sober. One of the drivers was taken to the hospital following the crash.
The collision caused significant delays and disruptions to tram services, affecting lines 7, 9, 22, 24, and 25. Due to the blockage, nearly 20 trams were stuck along Aleje Jerozolimskie, unable to proceed towards the city center. To manage the situation, the Warsaw Public Transport Authority announced that tram lines would be diverted via the Most Śląsko-Dąbrowski.
In response to the ongoing disruptions, a replacement tram line, designated as line 'Z', was established to operate between pl. Zawiszy 03 and Rondo Waszyngtona 01. This measure was taken to assist commuters affected by the blockage and to alleviate some of the pressure on the public transport system.
As the investigation continues, the city is urging commuters to seek alternative routes and remain patient as services gradually return to normal. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud crash, with some expressing shock at the severity of the incident. "It was quite alarming to see the aftermath of the collision," one bystander commented.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding safety in public transport systems, particularly in urban areas where tram lines intersect busy roadways. As Warsaw continues to modernize its transportation infrastructure, officials are likely to face increased scrutiny regarding safety measures and protocols to prevent similar accidents in the future.
In the aftermath of the collision, city officials are expected to review safety protocols and consider potential improvements to tram operations. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining rigorous safety standards to protect both passengers and drivers in the public transport system.
As the investigation unfolds, updates will be provided regarding the condition of those injured and the status of tram services. Commuters are advised to stay informed through official channels for the latest information on service disruptions and alternative travel options.
