Recovery efforts are underway following a tragic two-train collision in southern Spain that resulted in at least 41 fatalities and over 120 injuries. Rescuers have been working tirelessly through the night, fearing that additional bodies remain trapped in the wreckage.
The accident occurred when carriages of a Madrid-bound train derailed and collided with an oncoming train near Adamuz on a Sunday evening. Spanish media have reported that investigations are focusing on a faulty or damaged weld on the track as a potential cause of the disaster.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has canceled his scheduled trip to the World Economic Forum in Davos to oversee the situation and has pledged to uncover the causes behind Spain's deadliest train crash in over a decade. Additionally, both King Felipe and Queen Letizia are expected to visit the crash site to offer their condolences.
In light of the tragedy, the Spanish government has declared three days of national mourning.
Transport Minister Óscar Puente emphasized that the investigation remains active, noting that the death toll may not be final. Officials are working diligently to identify the deceased, and initial investigations have revealed that a significant gap in the rail may have played a crucial role in the derailment.
Salvador Jimenez, a journalist who was onboard one of the trains, described the moment of impact as feeling akin to an earthquake. Passenger accounts have similarly reported chaotic scenes post-collision, with rescue workers present to assist those trapped.
The crash occurred around 19:45 local time, with emergency services currently focusing on providing aid to the injured and identifying the deceased. High-speed rail services between Madrid and southern cities have been suspended until further notice.
As the investigation progresses, Spanish media reports indicate warnings from train operators about the deteriorating state of the rail infrastructure, raising concerns about safety protocols and oversight in the face of increasing rail traffic.
