A train driver died and at least 37 people were injured, five seriously, after a commuter train derailed near Barcelona, Spain, on Tuesday evening. The incident occurred just days after a high-speed train collision in Andalusia resulted in at least 42 fatalities on Sunday.
Derailment and Rescue Efforts
According to local officials, the Rodalies train collided with a retaining wall that had fallen onto the tracks between Gelida and Sant Sadurní. Catalonia regional fire Inspector Claudi Gallardo confirmed that all passengers had been safely removed from the train. Emergency services dispatched eleven ambulances to the scene, located approximately 35km (21.7 miles) west of Barcelona, to treat the injured.
Fire crews, numbering 35 in total, rescued one passenger who had been trapped inside the train. Following the rescue, crews conducted a thorough sweep of the area to ensure no further victims remained. Injured passengers were transported to hospitals in Moisès Broggi, Bellvitge, and Vila Franca. Emergency medical services reported that, in addition to the five seriously injured, six people sustained less serious injuries, and 26 were treated for minor conditions.
Service Disruptions and Ongoing Investigations
A separate incident on the Barcelona commuter network also occurred on Tuesday, with a train derailing between Blanes and Maçanet-Massanes after its axle was struck by a rock dislodged by the storm, according to Spain’s rail network operator, Adif. No injuries were reported in this second incident, but services were suspended as a precaution.
Approximately 400,000 commuters are expected to be affected by the service disruptions on Wednesday morning, as the Rodalies commuter rail network remains completely suspended while safety checks are carried out. Rail operators are expected to meet with authorities following the completion of these inspections.
Recent Rail Accidents in Spain
These crashes in Catalonia follow a devastating collision two days prior in Adamuz, Andalusia, which is considered one of the worst rail accidents in Spain in over a decade. At least 42 people died when carriages on a Madrid-bound train derailed, crossed onto opposing tracks, and collided with an oncoming high-speed train.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the derailment near Barcelona?
The derailment was caused by a collision with a retaining wall that had fallen onto the tracks between Gelida and Sant Sadurní, according to local officials.
Were there any injuries reported in the second derailment on Tuesday?
No injuries were reported in the second derailment, which occurred between Blanes and Maçanet-Massanes after a train’s axle was struck by a rock dislodged by the storm.
How many people have been affected by the service suspensions?
Approximately 400,000 commuters are expected to be without train services on Wednesday morning due to the complete suspension of services across the Rodalies commuter rail network.
As investigations continue into both incidents, what steps might be taken to prevent similar tragedies in the future?
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