At least 90 people were injured in Argentina's capital when a passenger train collided with an empty boxcar and derailed on Friday. The incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. on a bridge in the Palermo neighborhood while the train was en route from Buenos Aires to the northern suburbs.
Authorities reported that the collision raised concerns about basic safety measures. It was revealed that several meters of copper cable, essential for the signaling system along the tracks, had been stolen, rendering the system inoperable and potentially contributing to the accident.
Union leaders criticized the government for failing to invest in public infrastructure and address the issue of stolen signaling cables despite prior warnings. The railway union leader emphasized the need for repairs and spare parts, citing a lack of government funding as a hindrance.
Emergency responders swiftly evacuated the injured passengers, with 30 individuals being transported to hospitals for treatment. Rescuers, aided by police dogs, assisted in freeing 90 people trapped in the derailed train, which was scattered with debris and damaged.
The collision led to the suspension of service on the affected rail line, causing disruptions for commuters. This incident has reignited concerns about rail safety in Argentina, following a series of fatal train crashes in previous years attributed to outdated infrastructure and human error.
The aftermath of the crash has sparked political debates, with government officials and union leaders using the event to advance their respective agendas. The incident highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the rail system, including theft of copper cables by individuals seeking to profit from selling metal to scrapyards.
As investigations into the collision continue, authorities are working to determine the exact causes and factors contributing to the accident. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and investing in public infrastructure to ensure the safety of transportation systems.
