A commuter train has collided with a construction crane in southeastern Spain, resulting in four minor injuries and marking the nation's fourth rail incident within a five-day period. The crash occurred near the port city of Cartagena in the Murcia region at approximately midday, according to emergency services.
Details of the Murcia Incident
Emergency responders confirmed that the train did not overturn or derail during the collision. Spanish rail operator Adif reported on social media platform X that traffic on the affected line was temporarily halted due to "the intrusion into the infrastructure gauge by a crane not belonging to the railway operation." Service resumed around 1:30 pm, but the event has heightened concerns over rail safety across Spain.
Context of Recent Rail Accidents
This incident follows a series of tragic rail crashes in Spain. On Sunday, a high-speed collision in Adamuz, located in the Andalusia region, resulted in at least 43 fatalities and over 150 injuries. The crash involved a train from Malaga to Madrid and an oncoming service from Madrid to Huelva, with the second train bearing the brunt of the impact.
Two days later, on Tuesday, a commuter train derailed near Barcelona after heavy rain caused a containment wall to collapse onto the tracks. The driver was killed, and four passengers sustained serious injuries. Additionally, another collision occurred in the Catalonia region on the same day, though details were less severe.
Union Response and Government Stance
In response to these incidents, Spain's largest train drivers' union, SEMAF, announced a three-day nationwide strike set to begin on 9 February. The union cited the accidents in Adamuz and Gelida as a turning point, demanding enhanced safety measures and criminal liability for those responsible for railway infrastructure safety.
Transport Minister Oscar Puente expressed disagreement with the strike approach, stating that the government does not view it as the best method to address safety concerns. This divergence highlights ongoing tensions between labour groups and authorities regarding rail safety protocols.
Implications for Rail Safety
The recent spate of accidents has sparked widespread debate over the state of Spain's railway network. With four incidents in quick succession, questions are being raised about maintenance, operational standards, and emergency response capabilities. The union's call for strikes underscores the urgency felt by workers to implement stricter safety regulations.
As investigations into each crash continue, the focus remains on preventing future tragedies and ensuring the reliability of Spain's rail transport system for commuters and long-distance travellers alike.
