Train Collision Near Machu Picchu Injures 40, Claims Driver’s Life

A train collision near Machu Picchu resulted in the death of the driver and injuries to approximately 40 individuals. The incident occurred when two locomotives, operated by Inca Rail and PeruRail, collided head-on while transporting tourists to the iconic South American site. The accident has raised concerns about the safety of rail travel in the region, particularly for foreign visitors.

The crash took place around 13:20 local time (18:20 GMT), with emergency services responding swiftly to the scene. Initial reports indicate that the only confirmed fatality is the driver, Roberto Cárdenas. Authorities are still investigating whether any British tourists were among those injured in the collision.

Video footage from the site depicts a chaotic scene, with passengers and staff urgently calling for medical assistance. Some of the injured were seen receiving emergency care as rescue teams worked to evacuate those affected. A spokesperson for the UK Foreign Office stated, “We are supporting a number of British nationals involved in a train collision near Machu Picchu, Peru, and are in contact with the local authorities.”

Emergency Response and Criticism

Both train companies involved confirmed their services were affected by the tragic incident. Inca Rail reported that staff were dispatched to assist passengers and coordinate an orderly evacuation. However, the challenging terrain in the area has complicated rescue efforts, prompting concern among tourists and travel operators regarding the efficiency of the response.

Local authorities have faced criticism for their handling of the situation. Werner Salcedo, the governor of Cusco, expressed his disapproval of how injured individuals were being transported to medical facilities. He stated, “We are concerned about how the injured have been transferred according to the convenience of the clinics. I hold the private clinics responsible if the injured suffer further complications because they have prioritized their business over providing genuine care for the lives of our visitors.”

As a result of the collision, Peruvian officials have announced a temporary suspension of local railway services to ensure the safety of the area and facilitate ongoing recovery operations. The situation has highlighted the need for improved safety measures and emergency protocols in the popular tourist region, which attracts thousands of visitors each year.

As investigations continue, both local and international authorities are working to provide support to those affected and to ensure that similar incidents do not occur in the future.