**Roof Ripped from Double-Decker Bus in Dramatic Aqueduct Collision in Greater Manchester**
A double-decker bus had its entire roof torn away in a horrifying collision with a canal aqueduct in Eccles, Greater Manchester, on Monday afternoon. The accident, occurring at approximately 3pm on Barton Lane, involved a number 100 bus that was reportedly straying from its normal route.
Emergency response teams swiftly descended on the scene, where shattered glass and twisted metal marked the severity of the impact. Seventeen individuals on board received immediate medical attention for their injuries at the site. Of greater concern, three passengers suffered serious injuries and were subsequently transported to hospital for further treatment. Greater Manchester Police have stated that among those hospitalised, a 19-year-old woman, a man aged in his 20s, and another man in his 40s are all currently in a stable condition.
Authorities have confirmed that the bus driver, a man in his 50s, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing serious injury through careless driving. He has since been released on bail, pending further investigation. The incident has reignited concerns about road safety at the aqueduct, which has been the site of previous bus collisions, including a notably similar incident in April 2023 where the roof of another bus was sheared off.
The aqueduct in question has a clearly marked height restriction of 3.5 metres (equivalent to 11 feet and six inches), and the approach is flanked by warning chains and prominent signage intended to prevent such accidents. Despite these measures, it appears the hazard was not avoided on this occasion, prompting calls for a review of safety provisions in the area.
Public transport officials have responded promptly to the incident. Vernon Everitt, transport commissioner for Greater Manchester, issued a statement expressing sympathy for all those affected: “First and foremost, our thoughts are with everyone on board the bus. Our absolute focus has been on supporting emergency services in their response, with some people treated at the scene and some taken to hospital. An immediate and urgent investigation into the circumstances is underway and we are working closely with Greater Manchester Police and the bus operator, Stagecoach. This is clearly a distressing situation for everyone involved and we would like to thank emergency services for their swift response.”
Investigations are now ongoing to determine why the bus, operated by Stagecoach, was diverted from its regular route and how it failed to heed repeated warnings about the low clearance. Local residents have voiced anxiety following the latest incident, particularly as it follows a history of similar accidents at the same location. Many are questioning whether current precautions are sufficient and if additional measures—such as physical barriers or technological alerts—should be implemented to prevent future tragedies.
Greater Manchester Police are appealing for witnesses and any individuals with information related to the crash to come forward. Those with relevant details are urged to contact the force by calling 0161 856 4741, quoting log number 2226 of 21/07/2025. Community leaders have also encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report any concerns regarding transport safety in the area.
Commuters are urging authorities to take robust action after the repeated incidents, highlighting the importance of thorough driver training and regular reviews of problematic routes. Meanwhile, passengers affected by the crash are receiving support as investigators continue their thorough probe.
The aftermath of this dramatic accident leaves many questions unanswered and emphasises the pressing need for improved road safety at known high-risk locations. As inquiries continue, residents, passengers, and officials alike hope that lessons learned from this latest incident will finally lead to long-term solutions, safeguarding both public transport users and the wider community.