Head-on Collision of Two High-Speed ​​Trains in Spain; At Least 10 Dead

At least 10 people have been killed in a head-on collision between two high-speed trains in Spain. The tragic accident occurred while the trains were traveling from Madrid toward the southern region of Andalusia. This is the second major, fatal accident on the same railway line in less than a year, sparking widespread concern across the country.

The incident took place shortly after 9:00 AM local time on Wednesday (October 28) in the area between Mora and Orgaz, involving high-speed trains operated by Renfe and Iryo. Several carriages of the Iryo train derailed and plunged into a deep ravine. A total of 544 passengers were on board the two trains. Local authorities fear that the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue.

Describing the accident, one passenger recounted hearing a loud, sustained noise—lasting about 10 seconds—that made them fear the train was derailing. Looking out the window, they saw another wrecked train nearby. The precise cause of the accident remains unclear.

Previously, in January, a train derailed on the same line and collided with another train coming from the opposite direction, resulting in 46 deaths. The recurrence of such accidents on the same line within a short period has raised serious questions regarding railway maintenance and safety protocols.

Following this tragic event, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has suspended all his official engagements and expressed his condolences to the families of the victims. All political parties have also temporarily halted their election campaigns ahead of the general elections scheduled for late next month. Meanwhile, local authorities have set up emergency assistance centers and shelters to provide immediate medical care to the injured and to help families locate their loved ones.

Source: Reuters