Tragic Train Collision in Egypt Leaves Casualties
In a tragic incident, a train crash occurred on Egypt's railway network between Alexandria and Marsa Matruh, leaving at least three people dead and over 100 injured. The Egyptian Ministry of Health described the incident as a "tragic accident".
The authority responsible for railway administration in Egypt, the Egyptian National Railways (ENR), reported that two out of the total seven carriages derailed, causing the accident. Thirty ambulances were deployed to treat and transport the injured.
The cause of the derailment is believed to be a depression along the tracks. This incident is a stark reminder of the persistent problem of poor condition in Egypt's railway network, which includes trains and tracks. Long-delayed repair works are a common issue, exacerbating the problem.
Egypt's railway network, one of the oldest in Africa and the Middle East, spans approximately 10,000 kilometers. The neglect of this network is a significant factor in its current state. The poor condition is not just a recent issue; it is a recurring problem that has led to numerous accidents in the past.
In 2002, one of the worst train crashes in Egypt occurred, resulting in over 360 deaths due to a fire on a train. The 2002 train crash is an example of the serious safety issues in Egypt's railway network. Insufficient training of train personnel is sometimes cited as a cause of accidents, contributing to these safety concerns.
The ENR reported photos of the derailed carriages in a ditch, further emphasising the urgency for improved safety measures and maintenance in Egypt's railway network. It is hoped that this incident will serve as a catalyst for necessary changes to ensure the safety and wellbeing of passengers using Egypt's railways.
