Train crash in Spain: collision between high-speed trains claims dozens of lives
A major train accident involving two high-speed passenger trains occurred in southern Spain. According to the country's Transport Minister Oscar Puente, at least 21 people were killed and dozens of passengers were injured. The Associated Press also reported on the incident.
According to the national railway operator Adif, the tragedy occurred in the evening near the city of Cordoba. The train, which was travelling from Malaga to Madrid and carrying about 300 passengers, partially derailed, crossed onto the opposite track and collided with another train travelling from Madrid to Huelva with about 200 people on board.
The causes of the accident are currently being investigated. The Minister of Transport noted that the incident is particularly worrying because it occurred on a straight section of track that had recently been repaired. The Andalusian Health Service reported that 73 victims were taken to six hospitals in the region. Rescue operations continued throughout the night in difficult conditions due to the inaccessible terrain.
Eyewitnesses say that passengers climbed out of the damaged carriages through the windows using emergency hammers. Videos released show the tilted carriages and the evacuation of people. Rescue services, military emergency units and the Spanish Red Cross were involved in dealing with the aftermath of the accident. After the tragedy, rail traffic between Madrid and the cities of Andalusia was temporarily suspended.
Spain, train accident, high-speed trains, Cordoba
