Deadly Train Accident In Peru: Driver Dies, More Than 40 Hurt

Machu Picchu: A major accident occurred on the main railway line leading to Machu Picchu in Peru on Tuesday afternoon. Two tourist trains collided on the same track in the Pampacahua area between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes. The time is said to be around 1:20 pm. One train was going to Machu Picchu, and the other was returning from there. The front parts of both engines were badly stuck. A heap of broken glass and bent iron spread there.

How many people were affected by it?

Inca Rail driver Roberto Cardenas Loayza died in this accident. More than 40 passengers are injured. Of these, the condition of about 20 is said to be critical. Many foreign tourists have also been injured. The US Embassy has confirmed that some of its citizens are also injured. People present on the spot and local teams were seen providing first aid on the side of the tracks. Serious patients were lifted from stretchers to ambulances.

Which companies' trains collided?

Collision Inca Rail S.A. and Peru Rail S.A. happened between trains. Both companies are considered the main transportation to Machu Picchu, and most tourists use their services. Railways operate on the same line, so even a slight mistake increases the risk.

Where could the mistake have happened?

There are no concrete allegations against anyone yet. Investigation teams are on the spot. The question is how two trains came face-to-face on the same track. Initial discussion points to a signaling problem or an employee error. An official statement is awaited. A clear picture will emerge only after the investigation is completed.

What is the condition of the passengers?

Services on this route have been stopped after the accident. The tourist season is at its peak; hence, crowds of travelers are stuck at many places. People are seen searching for the way forward at the station and bus stop. In the videos that surfaced on social media, injured people, broken engines, and running on the spot can be clearly seen.

What will be the impact on tourism?

Machu Picchu attracts about 1.5 million people every year. Most of the tourists reach there by train. In such a situation, this accident raises serious questions on the safety system. At present, officials are busy restoring services and helping the passengers. It is difficult to say when the situation will become normal.