The scene of a collision between two trains in Spain’s Urda (Credit: AP)
In January, 45 people died in southern Spain when a train derailed and collided with an oncoming train. It was the country’s deadliest rail disaster since a 2013 crash that killed 80 people, raising fresh concerns about the safety of Spain’s extensive high-speed rail system. Spain’s rail infrastructure operator ADIF confirmed the accident and announced the suspension of services on the affected routes.
Expressing shock over what he called a “serious train accident”, Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez said: “Emergency services are working on the ground to assist those affected and ensure their safety, in coordination with all the involved administrations. Jesús Pérez, mayor of the neighbouring village of Los Yébenes, also said the incident appeared to be “serious. My affection, solidarity, and support to all the victims and their families. The accident comes months after another deadly train crash shook confidence in Spain’s rail network.
