The trains collided with each other on Friday, resulting in the loss of over 30 lives and more than 160 injuries; Several Arab nations have offered their condolences along with much of the international community.
Central Egypt was rocked on Friday as two passenger trains collided near Sohag, killing a reported 32 people. Additionally, there were over 160 people injured in the accident that has left much of the Arab and international community shocked. Railway traffic did, however, resume on Saturday. A video posted by Arab News indicates that after the first train nearly came to a stop, it was suddenly struck from behind by the second train.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi took to social media after the unprecedented accident warning that he intends to get to the bottom of what happened – whether it was an accident or an intentional disaster. He said, “Whoever caused this tragic accident, whether through negligence or corruption or other reasons, will face deterrent punishment with no exceptions, reluctance or deferment.”
In what is a very alarming revelation, Egyptian railway authorities revealed that the accident did, in fact, occur because “unknown individuals” used the emergency brake system of the first train that was heading north, causing the second train to smash into it.
As reported by Reuters, Egypt is home to not only one of the largest railway networks in the region but also the oldest. In fact, Egypt has a history of train accidents. In 2002, over 350 people were killed in a train accident that involved a fire that made its way through several carriages. In this instance, the train was also exceeding its passenger limit.
Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly has acknowledged the need for serious recalibration concerning the country’s railway system.
