Spain’s high-speed rail operator, iryo, has provided a significant update following a recent incident where two high-speed trains derailed. The incident occurred when a high-speed train traveling from Malaga to Madrid, carrying approximately 300 passengers, derailed near the village of Adamuz in Cordoba. Subsequently, it collided with another train carrying about 200 passengers en route from Madrid to Huelva.
The accident, which took place at 7:45 pm (1845 GMT), happened shortly after the Malaga to Madrid train, operated by Iryo, departed Cordoba. The other train involved belonged to Spain’s public train company Renfe. As a result of the crash, rescue operations have been ongoing throughout the night as numerous passengers remain trapped in the wreckage. Consequently, all high-speed train services between Madrid and Andalusia have been suspended until Tuesday.
Iryo, the operator of the first derailed train, provided an update on the evacuation efforts in the early hours of Monday. The evacuation of all passengers on service 6189 has been successfully completed, with the injured individuals receiving medical treatment at hospitals, and the remaining passengers relocated as per local authorities’ guidance.
The cause of the crash remains unknown, with Spain’s transport minister, Oscar Puente, describing the incident as “highly unusual,” particularly as it occurred on a renovated section of track. Antonio Sanz, the regional health and emergencies minister, highlighted the complexity of the rescue operation, noting challenges in accessing certain carriages, some of which have fallen down a four-meter embankment.
Specialist teams from neighboring regions have been mobilized to assist in the rescue efforts, including additional firefighters, paramedics, search and rescue personnel, medical specialists, forensic experts, and psychologists. The situation at the crash site is demanding, with firefighters facing the difficult task of reaching survivors amidst the wreckage.
As of now, reports indicate at least 24 fatalities, with 15 individuals in critical condition, 30 with severe injuries, and 170 sustaining minor injuries. The exact number of missing persons has yet to be confirmed.
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