Spain’s high-speed rail operator, iryo, has provided a significant update following a recent incident where two high-speed trains derailed on the previous evening. The incident involved a high-speed train en route from Malaga to Madrid, carrying approximately 300 passengers, derailing near the village of Adamuz in Cordoba. Subsequently, it collided with an oncoming train carrying around 200 passengers from Madrid to Huelva.
The accident, which took place at 7:45 pm (1845 GMT), occurred shortly after the Malaga to Madrid train, operated by iryo, departed from Cordoba. The second train involved belonged to Spain’s public train company Renfe. Emergency search and rescue operations have been ongoing throughout the night to assist the individuals trapped in the aftermath. As a result of the incident, all high-speed train services between Madrid and Andalusia have been suspended until Tuesday.
Iryo, the operator of the first train that derailed, issued an update in the early hours of Monday morning regarding the evacuation efforts. According to a spokesperson, all passengers from service 6189 have been successfully evacuated, with injured persons receiving medical treatment at hospitals. Remaining passengers have been relocated as per the guidance of local authorities. Updates on the situation will continue to be communicated through official channels, and an emergency helpline for affected passengers has been provided (900 001 402).
The cause of the crash remains unknown, with Spain’s transport minister describing it as a peculiar incident given that it occurred on a renovated stretch of track. The rescue operation has been described as challenging by regional health and emergencies minister Antonio Sanz, particularly due to difficult access to some carriages. Specialized teams, including firefighters, paramedics, search and rescue personnel, medical experts, forensic specialists, and psychologists from surrounding regions, have been mobilized to aid in the recovery process and support the affected individuals.
As the rescue efforts continue, reports indicate at least 24 fatalities, with 15 individuals in critical condition, 30 with severe injuries, and 170 sustaining minor injuries. The exact number of missing persons has yet to be confirmed. For real-time updates, readers are encouraged to follow the live blog for the latest information on the incident.