In a devastating turn of events, a passenger train collided head-on with a freight train in the Czech Republic, resulting in at least four fatalities and numerous injuries. The collision occurred late Wednesday night in the city of Pardubice, approximately 100 kilometers east of Prague.
The passenger train, operated by the private company RegioJet, was en route from Prague to the western Ukrainian town of Chop, close to the Slovakian border. Among the more than 300 passengers on board, many were foreigners. The impact of the crash was severe, with at least 23 people sustaining injuries, three of whom are in critical condition.
Prime Minister Petr Fiala expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, referring to it as a “big tragedy” and extending his condolences to the families of the deceased. Emergency services, including police, fire, and medical teams, were promptly dispatched to the scene to assist with the evacuation and provide necessary aid to the victims.
The major track between Prague and the eastern part of the country has been closed for investigation. Transport Minister Martin Kupka has confirmed that authorities are working diligently to determine the cause of the collision.
