Machu Picchu Train Crash Leaves One Dead and Dozens Injured
A tragic train crash near Machu Picchu, Peru’s iconic tourist destination, has resulted in the death of a train driver and left at least 40 passengers injured. This unfortunate incident occurred during a head-on collision on the single track leading to the ancient Inca site on Tuesday.
Details of the Incident
– Collision Overview: Two trains, operated by PeruRail and Inca Rail, collided on the track connecting Ollantaytambo Station to Aguas Calientes, the nearest town to Machu Picchu.
– Casualties: The local government confirmed one fatality and reported that approximately 20 of the injured passengers are in serious condition.
– Emergency Response: Over 20 ambulances responded to the scene, transferring injured individuals to medical facilities in Cusco. Reports indicate that some US citizens were among those injured, while the UK Foreign Office is assisting British nationals affected by the crash.
Challenges in Evacuating Passengers
Local media outlet Peru21 highlighted that hundreds of tourists remained stranded at the crash site, with evacuation efforts complicated by the area’s difficult terrain.
Company Statements and Ongoing Investigation
PeruRail expressed deep regret over the incident in a statement, revealing that their staff provided immediate first aid to those involved. However, the cause of the collision is still under investigation. This crash comes amid tensions surrounding transportation services to Machu Picchu, with local communities voicing concerns about the transparency of the bidding process for transport providers.
The Significance of Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu, built in the 15th century in the Peruvian Andes, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World. The journey to this historical landmark typically takes around 90 minutes by train or bus. Hiking the Inca Trail with registered tour operators is another popular method for reaching Machu Picchu. Despite a cap on daily visitors implemented in 2011 to protect the site, concerns about overtourism continue to persist.
This tragic event not only disrupts the lives of those directly affected but also raises important questions about the safety and management of tourist services in this celebrated location.