Light Rail Transit Association   URBAN TRANSIT NEWS 2004

Basel Depot Fire: On Wednesday evening a fire devastated the Wiesenplatz depot in Basel. The part of the depot where the fire broke out mainly contained preserved and special cars so there was no damage to the modern cars as the fire started prior to the start of the lower frequency 15 minute service. Luckily it appears that there was no serious injury or loss of life although surrounding properties had to be evacuated as a precaution.

Although not yet confirmed it is has been suggested that the fire started in the refrigerator of party tram 602 "Haifisch" (shark) which has been completely burnt out. Also destroyed were trailers "Badwännli" (1046) and "Edelweiss" (1308) along with a Bern tram which was on loan to Basel. Other cars, including the restaurant car "Dante Schuggi" (400) were able to be evacuated.

There was disruption to the service around the depot and cars coming off duty were housed elsewhere.

20 August 2004 & 2 September correction "Badwännli" originally stated as Motor car instead of trailer.