A conductor of a goods train was seriously injured in an attack on a train in the Relizane province of Algeria on Sunday, October 4, in the early evening. The incident has sparked outrage from the Société nationale des transports ferroviaires (SNTF), which described the attack as a "dangerous and irresponsible act." The conductor was in the midst of his duties when the attack occurred, just after 7:30 pm.
The SNTF has expressed its indignation over the incident, emphasizing that such attacks pose a significant threat to the physical integrity of conductors, passengers, and anyone near the railway tracks. The company refuses to downplay the incident as mere material damage, highlighting the serious injuries sustained by the conductor. The attacks have resulted in substantial repair costs, including broken windows, damaged car bodies, and destroyed equipment.
The incident in Relizane is part of a series of disruptions that have affected the rail network in recent months. Each interruption has a direct impact on daily commuters, including workers, high school students, and university students who rely on the rail service. The network not only connects urban areas but also provides long-distance and cross-border services, such as the Annaba-Tunis railway.
The SNTF has called for an end to these attacks, emphasizing that they must cease definitively. The company has expressed its solidarity with the hospitalized conductor and all personnel exposed to such risks. The SNTF's message is clear: these attacks must stop immediately. The incident has reignited a long-standing debate about the safety of the national rail network.
In response to the incident, the SNTF has appealed to the population, particularly those living along the railway tracks, to adopt a responsible attitude and report any suspicious behavior to the authorities. The company recognizes that no surveillance system can cover thousands of kilometers of tracks, making the vigilance of local residents crucial to preventing such incidents.
The SNTF has announced plans to intensify prevention measures in collaboration with competent services to contain the phenomenon and ensure the continuity of a public service essential to the mobility of Algerians. The goal is to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. The company is working to address the issue and ensure a safer rail network.
The attack has highlighted the need for increased security measures and cooperation between the railway company, local residents, and authorities to prevent such incidents. The SNTF's efforts aim to guarantee the safety of passengers, conductors, and the general public, while also minimizing disruptions to the rail service.
Key points
- The SNTF has urged local residents to report suspicious behavior to prevent future attacks.
- The attack has resulted in serious injuries to the conductor and significant material damage.
- The incident has sparked a renewed debate about the safety of Algeria's national rail network.
