Head-on train collision in Czech Republic leaves dozens injured | International

Nearly fifty people were injured in a head-on collision between two trains this Thursday morning, between the towns of Sliv and Divcice, in the Ceské Budejovice region, in the south of the Czech Republic. The accident, reported by emergency services to the CT24 network, occurred shortly after 6am, and involved a fast train and another commuter train. Investigations are ascertaining the causes of the accident, but the first clues point to human error.

The most seriously injured, five of whom are in critical condition, were transferred to the hospital in Ceské Budejovice, in the Bohemia region, a hospital spokesperson confirmed to Efe. The rest of the 47 injuries recorded were minor and were treated by first responders at the scene of the accident.

The drivers of both convoys were subjected to a breathalyzer test, which tested negative. The transport portal Zdopravand advanced that it is likely that one of the trains missed a traffic light.

The country’s president, Petr Pavel, reacted to the accident on his X account: “I follow with great concern the news of the serious collision of two trains in the České Budejovice region.”

“My thoughts go out to all the injured and their families,” he added, thanking the rescue services for their work. Pavel stressed that it is “fundamental” that the causes of the accident are investigated as soon as possible, both for the safety of citizens and to prevent accidents of this type from happening again.