Tragedy Strikes as Two High-Speed Trains Collide in Southern Spain
On January 19, a devastating incident unfolded near Cordoba in southern Spain, where a collision between two high-speed trains resulted in the confirmed deaths of at least 21 individuals, with over 70 others sustaining injuries, as reported by authorities.
Spain’s Transport Minister, Oscar Puente, disclosed that 30 of the injured were in critical condition and receiving medical attention, with initial estimates suggesting 25 casualties.
The calamity transpired around 7:45 PM local time, involving a train en route from Malaga to Madrid carrying 317 passengers, which inexplicably derailed near Amaduz, approximately 20 km from Cordoba. The derailed train subsequently collided with another high-speed train traveling from Madrid to Huelva on a parallel track, resulting in further derailment.
Expressing his condolences over the tragedy, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez lamented the grievous loss, stating, “Today is a night of deep pain for our country owing to the tragic rail accident in Adamuz.” The royal family of Spain also extended their sympathies to the bereaved families.
Oscar Puente described the collision as “terrible,” highlighting that the rear wagons of the Malaga-Madrid train veered off track and collided with the front carriages of the approaching train, causing them to derail as well.
Emergency services from Andalusia swiftly responded to the scene, aided by local residents in transferring passengers with minor injuries to a nearby sports center for immediate assistance. The Military Emergency Unit of Spain was also mobilized to support the rescue efforts.
As rescue operations persisted through the night, officials cautioned that the death toll might escalate. Consequently, rail services along the impacted routes will remain suspended until at least Tuesday as per authorities’ directives.
Adif, the rail infrastructure operator, established a support center at Atocha Station in Madrid, Malaga, and Huelva to offer guidance to the relatives of affected passengers, alongside a dedicated helpline for assistance.
Recalling Spain’s deadliest train disaster in July 2013, where 79 individuals lost their lives due to a high-speed train derailment in Santiago de Compostela caused by excessive speed, this recent incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with rail travel.
