Madrid, October 28: The death toll from a collision between two high-speed trains in Spain’s Toledo province has reportedly risen to 46, according to a media report. Rescue operations are underway following the crash, which left several passengers injured and caused multiple carriages to derail.
The accident occurred at around 9 am on Wednesday on the high-speed railway line connecting Madrid with Seville in southern Spain. According to rail infrastructure operator Adif, the collision took place between the towns of Urda and Mora-Orgaz in Toledo province. The trains involved were operated by state-owned Renfe and private operator Iryo.
Initial reports indicate that one train struck the rear of another, causing several carriages to leave the tracks. Some carriages reportedly went down an embankment beside the railway line, raising concerns that passengers may have been trapped in the wreckage.
Reports indicate that the Iryo train was carrying 147 passengers, while the Renfe train had 397 passengers on board. Police, firefighters, medical personnel and emergency responders were dispatched to the scene to rescue passengers and provide medical assistance.
The exact cause of the collision has not yet been established. Rail services on the Madrid-Andalusia high-speed line have been suspended, and authorities have launched an investigation.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed shock over the accident and conveyed his condolences to the victims and their families. As rescue operations continue, casualty figures remain subject to confirmation by the authorities.
