Train Collision near Machu Picchu Injures Dozens, One Dead
A head-on collision occurred on a single-track line near Machu Picchu, resulting in the death of one train driver and injuring at least 40 people. The crash took place on the track between Ollantaytambo Station and Aguas Calientes, a journey that usually takes about 90 minutes. Two trains operated by PeruRail and Inca Rail were involved in the incident.
Twenty ambulances responded to the scene, and the injured passengers were transported to Cusco for treatment. According to the US embassy, some of the injured were US citizens, although police have not yet confirmed the identities. Health officials cited by Reuters reported that at least 20 of the injured were in serious condition.
Hundreds of tourists remained at the scene awaiting evacuation, which was complicated by the difficult terrain. PeruRail expressed deep regret over the incident and stated that their staff provided first aid to the driver, the conductor, and passengers. The cause of the collision has not yet been determined.
This crash occurs amid a dispute between transport providers to Machu Picchu involving complaints about an allegedly opaque bidding process, concerns about ticket pricing, and limited access. Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, continues to face challenges related to overtourism despite a visitor cap established in 2011.
