In a late-night incident on Tuesday, a passenger train traveling from Holguín to Havana derailed in the province of Camagüey, resulting in 18 injuries, none of which are life-threatening, according to official reports. The mishap involved the Extra Train #16 and occurred at 9:45 p.m. local time at kilometer 522.6 on the central line, near the commercial access point known as El Cárnico in Camagüey.
Camagüey Television reported that the derailment was caused by the locomotive going off the rails, leading to “one overturned freight car and two passenger coaches leaving the tracks.” Following the accident, emergency protocols were activated, and representatives from the Communist Party, the provincial government, and transportation sector officials arrived at the scene.
“The Camagüey relief train is already operational, and recovery efforts are underway to restore normal circulation as quickly as possible,” emphasized the local broadcaster.
Official Statement from the Transportation Ministry
Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, the Minister of Transportation, issued an official statement through institutional channels, confirming that "there are no fatalities or severe injuries" as a result of the derailment. The train, which consisted of 12 vehicles, suffered damage to its generator car and two passenger coaches.
Nine of the train's carriages were unaffected and were guided to the Camagüey railway station. “We have activated a central command post within the Ministry of Transportation involving all relevant organizations to manage the necessary operations centrally,” Rodríguez Dávila stated.
He also mentioned that medical personnel from the Ministry of Public Health attended to the injured, who were transported to hospitals “for evaluation and care.” Rodríguez Dávila apologized for the situation and assured that efforts are underway to resolve it as promptly as possible.
Medical Update: No Life-Threatening Injuries
The local media outlet, Adelante, reported that the injured were admitted to the Manuel Ascunce Domenech Provincial Hospital in Camagüey. Dr. Guillermo Brito Adán, the surgical deputy director of the hospital, confirmed that “none of the patients have serious injuries or life-threatening conditions,” and they are “under thorough examination.”
Preliminary medical reports indicate that the injuries mainly consist of bruises, punctures, and a fractured kneecap. Additionally, some patients may be discharged in the coming hours, depending on their clinical progress.
Passenger Assistance and Return Operations
Approximately 500 passengers were aboard the derailed train. Those in unaffected carriages were transported by relief train to the central station in Camagüey. Around 250 passengers were conveyed by buses.
According to Adelante, medical care, food services, and organized return transportation to Havana are being provided at the railway terminal, coordinated by the Ministry of Transportation and provincial authorities.
Ongoing Investigation
An investigative commission has been formed to ascertain the causes of the accident, following protocols established by the Railway Transportation Administration. The commission is now active, working alongside the Revolutionary National Police and other Ministry of the Interior agencies.
The incident, despite lacking fatal consequences, highlights the vulnerabilities of Cuba's railway system, characterized by deteriorating infrastructure and frequent technical issues that compromise both safety and passenger transport efficiency.
Understanding the Camagüey Train Derailment
What caused the train to derail in Camagüey?
The derailment was caused by the locomotive going off the rails, which resulted in one freight car overturning and two passenger coaches leaving the tracks.
How many passengers were affected by the train derailment?
Approximately 500 passengers were on the train, with 18 sustaining injuries. None of the injuries are life-threatening.
What has been the response from the Cuban government?
The government activated emergency protocols and dispatched representatives to the scene. The Ministry of Transportation has set up a central command post to manage recovery operations, and a commission is investigating the incident.
Are there any ongoing investigations regarding the derailment?
Yes, an investigative commission has been established to determine the cause of the derailment, with assistance from the Revolutionary National Police and other agencies.