Egyptian train traffic has partially resumed on the Cairo-Aswan line, following a fatal collision between two trains in El-Ayat on Sunday. The accident resulted in 7 fatalities and 114 injuries. Although train movement has started again, the scene near the accident site still reflects the chaos and rescue efforts that unfolded on Sunday. Debris and damaged train cars remain at the site, with workers attempting to dismantle and remove the wreckage.
Workers from the Egyptian Railways workshops are currently on site, dealing with the aftermath of the collision by dismantling damaged parts and sorting reusable components. According to one worker, their role involves handling damaged train components, collecting usable parts, and performing various technical tasks before transporting the cars to workshops for repair and potential reuse. The workers' efforts aim to restore the damaged trains to operational status.
Train movement has resumed, but with a significantly reduced schedule. Trains are now departing at 15-minute intervals, and when passing through the accident site, they slow down considerably before continuing their journey. Local residents report that the train traffic is not back to normal, with a visibly slower pace. The authorities are working to restore the regular schedule as soon as possible.
Eyewitnesses describe the chaotic scene following the accident, with many residents rushing to the site to assist those in need. Ahmed Adel, a local resident, recounted that upon arrival, he found injured people on the ground and passengers crying for help. The residents provided immediate assistance to the injured, working together to move those affected away from the wreckage before the arrival of ambulances.
Another eyewitness, Saeed Fahmy, corroborated Adel's account, stating that he rushed to the scene upon hearing the collision and joined the residents in searching for and assisting the injured. Fahmy noted that it took about an hour for ambulances to arrive, during which time the residents worked together to rescue those trapped and provide basic care to the injured.
The Egyptian authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident, which preliminary reports suggest was due to human error. The incident has raised concerns about railway safety in Egypt, with many calling for improved measures to prevent such tragedies in the future. The government has promised a thorough investigation and swift action against those responsible.
The aftermath of the accident has left a lasting impact on the local community, with many residents still shaken by the events of Sunday. As train traffic gradually returns to normal, the focus remains on supporting the families of the victims and ensuring that measures are put in place to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The authorities continue to work on restoring the damaged infrastructure and providing assistance to those affected.
Key points
- 7 people were killed and 114 injured in the train collision in El-Ayat, Egypt.
