Power lines down in train chaos

Update, 3.05pm: Train services on the Joondalup line may not return to normal until Friday after a power line crashed onto a city bound train this morning, according to Transport Minister Troy Buswell.

Passengers endured a terrifying few minutes when a downed power line hit the train, slamming against a window and sending people ducking for cover as they feared the windows could smash.

The power line and supporting poles were ripped out as the Joondalup line train continued along the track for about a kilometre after becoming tangled in the line.

Debris showered vehicles travelling along the freeway.

Train transport was in chaos with hundreds of people stranded at stations. The interruptions have extended into this afternoon with replacement buses used to clear the backlog.

Passengers were initially stranded on the disabled train this morning.

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Trains have been stopped between Whitfords and Leederville and Mr Buswell said the trains may not return to normal until Friday.

Mr Buswell described the incident as significant and said it had caused damage to 1.5km of overhead wire and to some rail infrastructure.

He said all rail crews were working to repair the line and a full investigation was underway to find the cause.

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Power lines down in train chaos