A lorry with its loading platform still raised tore down high-voltage railway cables and overturned at a level crossing, causing major disruption to train services but miraculously leaving the driver unharmed.

The incident occurred in the town of Groot-Bijgaarden, part of the municipality of Dilbeek in Flemish Brabant, Belgium, at around 3:10pm local time on Wednesday, 30th April.

CCTV footage released by rail infrastructure operator Infrabel shows the lorry approaching the crossing with its tipper body elevated, striking the 3,000-volt overhead lines and triggering bright electrical flashes before the vehicle toppled onto its side.

The driver managed to crawl out of the cab unaided and was not injured, according to Infrabel spokesperson Thomas Baeken.

The accident caused extensive damage to the railway infrastructure, halting all train traffic between Jette and Ternat.

Two trains were stranded on the tracks, carrying 80 and 30 passengers respectively.

Truck overturns after hitting overhead wires at railway in Groot-Bijgaarden, Belgium, April 30, 2025. The driver had left the loading platform up. Note: Photo is a screenshot from a video. (Infrabel/Newsflash/NX)

Emergency services evacuated the first train by 4:15 pm, with the second evacuation following shortly after.

Passengers were offered alternative transport via the MIVB network and replacement buses between Jette and Denderleeuw.

Picture shows the scene of the accident in Groot-Bijgaarden, Belgium, April 30, 2025. Belgian truck overturned after hitting wires at railway. Note: Image is a screenshot from video. (Newsflash/NX)

Infrabel crews worked overnight to repair approximately one kilometre of damaged overhead lines, with full train services resuming by 7:00 pm on Thursday, 1st May.

Baeken noted that such incidents continue to occur despite repeated safety campaigns urging drivers to check that their loading platforms and crane arms are fully lowered before setting off.

(MJ Leidig/newsX)