A man has died after being struck by a light rail carriage in Sydney, NSW police say.

Emergency services were called to Devonshire Street, Surry Hills, in the city’s inner-east, with reports a pedestrian had been hit about 1.15pm on Thursday.

Police found a man, believed to be aged in his 40s, under the carriage.

He was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics, but died at the scene.

The man is yet to be formally identified.

Transport for NSW coordinator general Howard Collins said the organisation and Transdev were working closely with authorities to investigate the incident.

“NSW Police is leading the investigation into the incident and we will ensure everything is done with the operator to help establish the full circumstances surrounding this extremely distressing incident,” he said.

“Our sympathies are with the man’s family and we also extend our thanks to the emergency services personnel, staff and bystanders who responded.”

Support services are being provided for light-rail staff and those who were on board at the time.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.