A tragic train collision near Machu Picchu in Peru resulted in the death of a train driver and injuries to at least 40 people on Tuesday (December 30). The crash occurred on the single track that connects Ollantaytambo Station to Aguas Calientes, the closest town to the ancient Inca site.
According to The Guardian, the collision involved two trains operated by PeruRail and Inca Rail, with one train traveling from Machu Picchu and the other heading towards it. The crash site, near Qoriwayrachina, is also an archaeological location. The railway has suspended services between Machu Picchu and the nearby city of Cuzco following the incident.
Local media reported that over 20 ambulances responded to the scene, and health officials confirmed that at least 20 of the injured are in serious condition. Foreign tourists were among those affected, with the U.S. embassy in Peru confirming that American citizens were injured.
Hundreds of tourists were stranded due to the suspension of railway services. The accident highlights ongoing challenges in managing transport to Machu Picchu, a site that attracts approximately 1.5 million visitors annually.
The cause of the collision remains under investigation, and both railway companies have expressed their condolences. PeruRail stated, “We deeply regret what has happened,” and mentioned that their staff provided immediate first aid to the affected individuals.
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