A railway collision occurred early Saturday morning beneath the Guayos Overpass in the town of the same name, located in the Cabaiguán municipality of Sancti Spíritus province. The incident involved a violent crash between two freight trains. Reports from the scene reveal that one of the trains was en route from the Special Development Zone of Mariel (ZEDM) to the city of Camagüey. The other train had departed from Ciego de Ávila, carrying six tankers filled with crude oil destined for the Sergio Soto refinery in Sancti Spíritus.
The collision resulted in significant damage to both engines, as well as to one of the tankers carrying the oil, which led to a spill of some of the crude. Specialized teams promptly responded to address the fuel leak and prevent an environmental disaster. Provincial PCC and government officials, along with municipal leaders from Cabaiguán, arrived at the accident site to oversee damage control and assess the situation.
Fortunately, no fatalities or injuries have been reported at this time, but the material damages are substantial. Efforts are underway to restore rail traffic, which remains halted due to the collision. Authorities have not yet disclosed the causes of the accident or the extent of the fuel loss. The situation is under control, with ongoing cleanup, recovery, and investigation efforts.
Throughout 2024, train accidents in Cuba have become a recurring issue, highlighting the deterioration of the railway infrastructure and the lack of safety at crossings. One of the most notable incidents was the derailment of a passenger train in Matanzas on September 28, which disrupted traffic on the Central Line and stranded hundreds of passengers at stations like La Coubre in Havana. On the same day, another train derailed at kilometer 149.2 of the same line, affecting rail operations across the region.
Collisions between trains and vehicles have also been part of this problem. On July 16, a train collided with a Hyundai car at a railway crossing in Santa Clara, causing significant damage to the vehicle, though no injuries were reported. Similarly, on February 19, a train struck a tourist car on the Vento line in Havana, where the vehicle failed to heed a stop signal, a common occurrence at the island's railway crossings.
These incidents underscore the urgent need to enhance railway safety, improve signage at crossings, and ensure better maintenance of the tracks. The frequency of these accidents has sparked public criticism, with demands for measures to reduce risks and avoid disruptions to an essential service for mobility on the island.
Understanding Train Accidents in Cuba
What caused the recent train collision in Sancti Spíritus?
The specific causes of the train collision in Sancti Spíritus have not yet been disclosed by authorities.
What are the consequences of train accidents in Cuba?
Train accidents in Cuba often result in significant material damage, disruption of rail traffic, and can pose environmental risks, especially when fuel spills are involved.
How are authorities responding to train accidents in Cuba?
Authorities typically respond to train accidents by deploying specialized teams to manage spills and repair damages, while also conducting investigations to determine the causes.
Why are train accidents becoming more frequent in Cuba?
The increasing frequency of train accidents in Cuba is attributed to the deteriorating railway infrastructure and inadequate safety measures at crossings.