Tragic Train Derailment Near Barcelona Leaves One Dead and Multiple Injured
A train driver has lost their life and 20 others sustained injuries in a derailment of a commuter train on the outskirts of Barcelona. The incident, linked to a collapsed retaining wall, comes shortly after a separate train collision in southern Spain led to the deaths of 42 people.
This tragic event underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Spain’s rail services, raising urgent questions about infrastructure safety and maintenance in the region.
Key Developments
- One train driver has died, and 20 people have been injured, with four in critical condition.
- The derailment occurred near Gelida while the train was en route to Sant Sadurni d’Anoia.
- Emergency services responded quickly, dispatching 20 ambulances and 38 fire units to the scene.
- Investigations suggest that heavy rainfall may have caused the retaining wall to collapse onto the tracks.
Full Report
Accident Details
The commuter train was traveling south between Gelida and Sant Sadurni d’Anoia on Tuesday evening when the retaining wall collapsed, resulting in the derailment. Emergency services confirmed that no passengers were trapped inside the train after a thorough review of the carriages.
Emergency Response
In response to the accident, emergency teams arrived swiftly at the scene. Twenty ambulances transported the injured to local hospitals, including Moises Broggu, Bellvitge, and Vilafranca. Authorities continue to secure the area to facilitate ongoing investigations and ensure public safety.
Official Statements
Catalonia’s fire service reported no remaining victims within the train carriages, emphasizing their commitment to thoroughly secure the site. Spain’s national railway operator, ADIF, indicated that the collapse of the containment wall may be linked to significant rainfall in Catalonia, which has been prevalent in recent days.
Context & Previous Events
This derailment occurred just two days following another tragic train collision in southern Spain that resulted in the loss of 42 lives and numerous injuries. The region has faced ongoing struggles related to underfunded rail services and frequent incidents, raising concerns about infrastructure safety.
