UPDATE: A devastating train collision near Machu Picchu has resulted in the death of the driver and left at least 30 others injured, including tourists, as reported by Peru21. The tragic event unfolded at approximately 1:20 PM local time on October 1, 2023, along the rail line connecting the famous archaeological site to the village of Ollantaytambo.
The deceased has been identified as train driver Roberto Cárdenas. Eyewitness accounts and video footage reveal that the two trains, operated by Inca Rail and PeruRail, collided head-on while traveling in opposite directions. Emergency responders swiftly arrived at the scene, where chaos ensued as passengers and crew urgently requested medical assistance.
Amid the wreckage, first responders are working tirelessly to treat the injured, with reports indicating that several individuals received immediate medical care on-site. The challenging terrain surrounding the accident site has further complicated rescue operations, raising alarms among travelers and tourism operators.
Inca Rail has confirmed its involvement in the crash and dispatched personnel to the area to facilitate the evacuation of passengers in a safe manner. However, local officials, including Cusco’s governor Werner Salcedo, have criticized the handling of the situation, expressing deep concern over the transportation of the injured. Salcedo stated, “
We are concerned about how the injured have been transferred according to the convenience of the clinics. The ministries are responsible for this. I hold the private clinics responsible if the injured suffer further complications because they have prioritized their business over providing genuine care for the lives of our visitors.
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In light of this incident, Peruvian authorities have temporarily suspended local rail services to ensure the safety of the area while investigations are underway. The impact of this collision is being felt deeply within the local tourism industry, as travelers remain anxious about their safety and the continuing operations of these rail services.
As this story develops, more details regarding the condition of the injured and the operational status of rail services are expected to emerge. Stay tuned for updates on this tragic incident that has shaken the popular tourist route to one of the world’s most iconic sites.
