Two high-speed trains collide in Spain, killing 50 and injuring nearly 200

New Delhi: According to ABC Spain, at least 50 people have died and around 200 have been injured in a collision between two high-speed trains in central Spain. The accident occurred on the rail route connecting Madrid to the southern Andalusia region. The trains were completely destroyed. The accident has forced the suspension of high-speed rail service between Madrid and Andalusia.

The Spanish Prime Minister has described the accident as a serious incident. According to railway infrastructure manager ADIF, the collision occurred between the towns of Mora, Orgaz, and Urda. ADIF, the organization that manages Spain's state-owned railway infrastructure, said in a statement on X that the accident occurred at 9:00 a.m. local time.

How did the accident happen?

According to preliminary information, the AVE high-speed train collided with a stationary Iryo train. Initial investigations into the accident suggest a signaling system malfunction. Sources within the transport department told Spanish media ABC that a technician was repairing a signaling system malfunction, which prevented the AVE train from receiving information about the other train ahead.

Security personnel deployed for relief and rescue operations

A large number of Civil Guard personnel are being deployed to assist in the rescue and relief efforts following the accident. Agents from the Nature Conservation Service and Traffic Department, along with the Public Security Unit of the Toledo Province, are also on the scene. Security teams from Ciudad Real and Albacete, the Reserve and Security Group, the Air Unit, the Drone Team, the Mounted Police, and the Crime Investigation Team are also being sent to the scene.

According to the Civil Guard's initial assessment, both trains were stopped. The AVE train was then given the signal to proceed, but its crew was not informed that the Iryo train was standing right ahead. However, the exact cause of the accident will only be determined after the investigation is complete.

Crowds of passengers at Cordoba station

Hundreds of passengers gathered at Cordoba station after the accident disrupted train services. Passengers are flocking to Renfe ticket counters to inquire about the status of their trains and their onward journeys. Station screens are currently displaying information about the disruption to train services between Madrid and Andalusia.

Protests postponed after train accident

A tractor protest against rising fuel prices in Spain has been postponed following the train accident. The protest, which was scheduled to take place in Madrid on Wednesday morning, reportedly involved many participants traveling on the same rail route where the accident occurred. Furthermore, out of respect for those who lost their lives in the accident, protesters have decided to postpone their march in the capital. The protest will now be held at a later date.