The recovery operations following Tuesday night's train derailment in Camagüey are moving forward at a brisk pace. According to a Facebook update from Cuba's Minister of Transportation, Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, the derailment of Extra Train 16, which was en route from Holguín to Havana, took place at kilometer 522.6 on the Central Line, near the El Cárnico commercial access point.
The incident caused damage to the generator van and two passenger cars, impacting their suspension and wheel systems. However, nine out of the twelve vehicles in the train remained undamaged and have been relocated to the Camagüey station. The locomotive emerged from the accident unscathed, the minister highlighted.
Infrastructure Repairs and Passenger Arrangements
Recovery efforts commenced at five in the morning, following the completion of a police investigation. Five track repair brigades and rescue teams were immediately deployed, working cautiously to prevent further damage.
The infrastructure suffered significant damage, with three track sections, each containing 23 sleepers, destroyed, and four rails fractured—two on the Cárnico branch and two on the Central Line. So far, two new sections of sleepers have been installed. A special crane is currently working to remove the generator van and the second derailed car, which are obstructing the line.
The line is anticipated to be cleared before the scheduled passage of the Havana-Guantánamo train, which had to halt its journey in Santa Clara. This train has since departed for Majagua, in Ciego de Ávila, where passengers and crew will have lunch while waiting for the track to be reopened.
Passenger Support and Medical Updates
Passengers who were waiting at the nine remaining stations along the route to Havana have been transported by bus, as stated by Rodríguez. In Camagüey, arrangements were made for the return of part of the crew and injured passengers using three buses and, in some instances, taxis from the Agency Taxis Cuba.
Regarding the injured, it was confirmed that 18 individuals were taken to the Manuel Ascunce Domenech University Hospital with minor injuries. Of these, 17 have already been discharged, while one patient with a fractured kneecap will be transported by personal means, as per her family's decision.
Key Questions About the Camagüey Train Derailment
What caused the train derailment in Camagüey?
The exact cause of the train derailment in Camagüey has not been detailed in the initial reports. Investigations are likely ongoing to determine the factors that led to the accident.
How many people were injured in the Camagüey train accident?
A total of 18 people sustained minor injuries as a result of the accident. 17 have been discharged from the hospital, while one remains due to a fractured kneecap.
What measures are being taken to restore the train service?
Recovery teams have been working to repair damaged tracks and remove derailed cars. They aim to clear the line before the next scheduled train, ensuring minimal disruption to services.