Queensland Rail Safety Regulator will undertake a full investigation into the derailment of a freight train at Mingela earlier this week.

State Transport Minister, Scott Emerson, said investigators had arrived on site to begin gathering evidence into the cause of the accident.

The incident involving a private freight train, occurred just after 7am Sunday, causing 21 wagons containing zinc concentrate to derail.

“This was a significant derailment and spill which needs a full investigation,” Mr Emerson said.

“The Mt Isa line has become one of our most important freight routes and sections of it need upgrading as capacity grows beyond the current 100 trains a week.

“A plan to upgrade the line currently forms part of Queensland’s submission to the Federal Government’s Nation Building 2 program.”

It is expected to take up to two weeks to reopen the line.