A train slammed into a fruit-loaded lorry after the bungling driver reversed onto a level crossing and became stuck.
The accident left five people in the lorry injured.
The authorities said a kilometre of track needs to be replaced, which won’t be finished until the weekend.
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The crash took place in the village of Meteren in central Netherlands at around 11.10am yesterday (30 Oct).
The government transport agency ProRail released CCTV footage of the accident to warn other lorry drivers.
The clip showed the driver nearly passing over the crossing before deciding to stop and reverse back to the first barrier.
Both barriers then began to close and the driver apparently became trapped in two minds.
Apparently stuck, the driver edged forwards as the high-speed train approached to prevent the cab from being hit.
The train smashed into the trailer, sending its cargo of pears flying through the air.
ProRail advised drivers to smash through the barriers if they find themselves stuck on a level crossing, even if it damages equipment.
A spokesperson said: “The footage shows how quickly things can go wrong at a railway crossing and is shocking to watch.
“Better to damage a barrier than to put a life in danger.
“If you’re stuck between the barriers: Keep going.”
They added: “The damage to the track is extensive.
“A kilometre of track needs to be replaced, and repairs will continue well into the weekend.”
Five people in the lorry sustained minor injuries.
It is unclear if anyone needed hospital treatment.
About 400 passengers were on the train at the time, according to ProRail.
They were evacuated from the damaged locomotive and taken to Den Bosch station.
Train services between Den Bosch and Geldermalsen remain suspended while repairs are carried out, as reported by Need To Know.
ProRail are carrying out an investigation into the cause of the accident.
One local said: “There was terrible material damage and a lot of pressure on the driver involved, but I’m glad only minor injuries are reported.”
“It all went pear shaped so quickly,” added another.
Bowen remarked: “Driver must have been impaired.”
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