A head-on train collision occurred near Machu Picchu, Peru, resulting in one fatality and at least 40 injuries. The incident took place on Tuesday at approximately 13:20 local time (18:20 GMT) on the track connecting Ollantaytambo Station and Aguas Calientes, the town closest to the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Incident Details
The collision involved trains operated by PeruRail and Inca Rail. A train driver was killed, and numerous passengers sustained injuries. A passenger, Niels Honkoop (33), reported observing injured individuals, including some trapped within the carriage, and noted shattered glass and broken furniture. He provided assistance by moving luggage and distributing painkillers.
The UK Foreign Office confirmed it is providing support to British nationals involved in the crash, and the US embassy in Peru stated that US citizens were among the injured.
Aftermath and Response
Following the collision, medical assistance arrived via another train. Passengers, including Mr. Honkoop and his tour group, were transported to a nearby village for medical attention, food, and accommodation.
PeruRail issued a statement expressing regret and confirming that its staff immediately provided first aid to the train driver, conductor, and passengers. The specific cause of the accident has not yet been determined.
Context of Machu Picchu Tourism
The incident occurs amidst ongoing discussions concerning transport providers to Machu Picchu. Local communities have expressed dissatisfaction with what they describe as a non-transparent bidding process for operating routes. Tickets for trains and buses serving the ancient Incan city are noted for their high prices, contributing to a lucrative market for operators due to the site's limited accessibility.
Machu Picchu, constructed in the Peruvian Andes during the 15th century, is recognized as one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World. To access the site, visitors can utilize a combination of trains and buses or hike the Inca trail. Since 2011, a daily visitor cap has been enforced to aid in the preservation of the site, although concerns regarding over-tourism persist.