Death Toll Rises to 64 After Two High-Speed Trains Collide in Spain

Darwin, October 28: The death toll from a collision involving two high-speed trains in central Spain has risen to 64, the regional government of Castilla-La Mancha said on Wednesday. More fatalities are feared following the devastating crash near Toledo province.

Earlier reports had put the death toll at at least 30. The latest figures indicate a significant increase in the number of casualties.

The accident occurred on Wednesday morning near Urda, in Toledo province, south of the capital, Madrid. The two trains were travelling on a high-speed railway line connecting Madrid with the southern city of Seville.

According to preliminary information, an AVE high-speed train operated by Spain’s state-owned rail company Renfe crashed into the rear of a stationary train operated by private rail company Iryo. Two carriages were derailed in the collision.

Esther Padilla, a spokesperson for the regional government of Castilla-La Mancha, earlier told Spanish public broadcaster TVE that both trains were travelling in the same direction. The rear train struck the stationary train, causing the carriages to derail.

Rescue operations and the identification of victims are ongoing. Authorities are monitoring the situation and investigating the cause of the accident.

The latest figures put the death toll at 64. Railway authorities are continuing to assess the condition of the injured and oversee rescue efforts.

Source: Reuters