The fatal collision happened on the railway line connecting the historic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu with the village of Ollantaytambo in Peru
Two trains have crashed head-on in Peru, killing one and leaving 30 people wounded, including holidaymakers.
The devastating smash occurred on the railway linking the popular tourist destination Machu Picchu with Ollantaytambo village, according to Peru21. The publication reports that the confirmed fatality is train driver Roberto Cárdenas.
Early accounts and footage from the scene suggest the trains – operated by Inca Rail and PeruRail – collided whilst travelling towards each other. Emergency crews raced to the site around 1.20pm local time, equivalent to 6.20pm GMT, reports the Mirror.
Several regional news sources have confirmed that tourists are amongst the casualties. Video from the location captures passengers and crew desperately calling for ambulances and medical help, whilst some of the wounded receive treatment.
Inca Rail has acknowledged that one of its services was involved in the tragic crash. The firm said its personnel were immediately dispatched to the scene to undertake “the necessary actions and evacuate passengers in an orderly and safe manner”
The challenging landscape is reportedly hindering rescue operations, sparking anxiety amongst travellers and tour companies.
Cusco governor Werner Salcedo has criticised what he described as chaos surrounding the transportation of casualties. He expressed his concerns, stating: “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.”
Peruvian authorities have announced a temporary halt to local rail services as teams strive to secure the area.
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