The disaster occurred late Sunday evening when an Iryo high-speed train bound for Madrid from Málaga derailed and crossed onto the track of an oncoming Renfe-operated train heading toward Huelva. The impact pushed the second train off the rails and down an embankment, causing severe damage to the front carriages of both trains.
Spanish authorities confirmed that around 400 passengers were aboard both trains at the time of the collision. At least 75 people were taken to hospitals, and 15 of them were reported in serious condition, according to the chief of the regional government of Andalusia. Officials also warned that the death toll could rise as rescue teams continue to work at the scene.
Video shared on social media showed rescue workers pulling passengers from twisted carriages under floodlights, with some survivors climbing out of shattered windows. One passenger described a terrifying sequence of events, noting the sudden shift and loud noise as the first train left the tracks.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation. Spain's transport minister, Oscar Puente, said it was 'really strange' that a derailment could occur on a straight section of track that had been recently refurbished, and added that investigators were looking into all possible factors.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed deep sorrow over the accident, calling it a 'night of deep pain' for the country. Leaders from across Spain, including members of the royal family, have extended their condolences to the victims and their families.
Emergency services, including fire and medical teams, are continuing search and rescue efforts, while rail operator ADIF announced that high-speed rail services between Madrid and Andalusia will remain suspended as recovery operations proceed.
This incident marks one of the deadliest rail accidents in Spain in recent years and has raised urgent questions about railway safety and emergency preparedness on the country's high-speed network.
Rania Umutoni
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/at-least-21-killed-after-high-speed-trains-derail-in-spain
