Post by : Badri Ariffin

Barcelona :

On Tuesday, a commuter train derailed just outside Barcelona as heavy rainfall caused a containment wall to collapse onto the tracks. The tragic incident resulted in the driver's death and injured 37 passengers, with four in critical condition.

The derailment happened in Gelida, located on the outskirts of the city. According to the regional fire department, the wall fell onto the tracks right before the train arrived, leading to the derailment. Emergency teams successfully evacuated all passengers from the train post-accident.

Fire department inspector Claudi Gallardo noted that emergency services responded quickly. Approximately 20 ambulances and 38 firefighter units were dispatched to assist the injured individuals and manage the rescue efforts.

This derailment follows a tragic incident just two days prior, where a high-speed train collision in Cordoba province resulted in 42 fatalities. This raises new concerns regarding rail safety in the region.

The commuter rail system in Barcelona has faced ongoing scrutiny due to chronic underfunding and frequent technical issues. Additionally, that same evening, train services between Blanes and Macanet-Massanes experienced disruptions as a train axle derailed, per reports from rail operator Adif.

Authorities are currently probing both incidents, as worries grow regarding the safety of infrastructure amidst extreme weather challenges.

#Global News