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Recovery efforts following the derailment of Train Extra 14, which occurred on Wednesday near the Bellamar Caves, are progressing steadily, according to the Facebook page of the National Routes of the Ministry of Transport of Cuba.
The information reveals that three of the seven derailed cars have already been placed back on the tracks, and efforts are currently underway to recover the fourth car.
The incident involved a train coming from Guantánamo bound for Havana, carrying over 820 passengers. Although no fatalities were reported, six individuals were injured, four of whom were taken to the Comandante Faustino Pérez Provincial Hospital, including two railway workers and a passenger with minor injuries.
Preliminary causes and damages
According to the engineer Rafael Roldán Simón, a crew member, an emergency was declared due to a fault in the railway track, which caused the derailment of seven cars and damage to approximately 250 meters of railway line.
Operational alternatives and institutional response
Authorities have highlighted the good performance of the temporary connection between the Sabanilla branch and the Central Line, which has allowed for the partial operation of trains in the region while structural repairs are underway.
Emergency teams, railway technicians, medical personnel, and transport officials quickly mobilized to assist passengers and restore the functionality of the railway. The travelers were transferred to train and bus terminals in Matanzas to continue their journey to Havana.
Context and background
This accident adds to the one that occurred days earlier in Baraguá, Ciego de Ávila, where a passenger train collided with a private car that attempted to cross the railway. Fortunately, in that case, there were no injuries or fatalities reported.
Railway accidents in Cuba continue to be frequent, largely attributable to the deterioration of infrastructure, lack of signage, human errors, and insufficient maintenance, in addition to external factors such as vandalism. The situation once again highlights the urgent need to modernize the national railway system.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Train Derailment in Matanzas
What were the causes of the train derailment in Matanzas?
The train derailment in Matanzas was caused by a defect in the railway track, triggering a state of emergency. The incident affected seven carriages and damaged approximately 250 meters of railway line. These conditions reflect the deterioration of the railway infrastructure in Cuba.
How many people were injured in the train accident in Matanzas?
Six people were injured in the train derailment in Matanzas. Four of them were taken to the Comandante Faustino Pérez Provincial Hospital, including two railroad workers and a passenger with minor injuries.
What measures are being taken to restore train service following the derailment?
The authorities have highlighted the good performance of the temporary connection of the Sabanilla branch with the Central Line, which has allowed for the partial flow of trains while repairs are being carried out. Emergency teams, railroad technicians, and transportation officials quickly mobilized to assist passengers and restore the operational capacity of the track.
What recent railway accident history exists in Cuba?
This accident in Matanzas adds to other recent incidents, such as the derailment of a train in Camagüey that left 18 injured and the collision of a train with a car in Ciego de Ávila. The frequency of these accidents is attributed to the deterioration of infrastructure, the lack of signage and maintenance, and human errors.
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