A head-on train collision occurred near Machu Picchu in Peru, resulting in at least one fatality and 40 injuries. The crash involved two trains operating on the popular tourist line connecting Ollantaytambo to the world-famous Inca citadel. The sole fatality is reported to be the train driver, Roberto Cárdenas. While it is unclear if any British tourists were among the injured, the article states that tourists are among the 40 people who sustained injuries.
The incident happened at approximately 1:20 PM local time (6:20 PM GMT) on a stretch of track used by both Inca Rail and PeruRail. Emergency services responded quickly, and footage from the scene depicted passengers seeking medical assistance. Inca Rail confirmed one of its trains was involved and that personnel were dispatched for evacuation. The remote Andean location and challenging terrain are reportedly complicating rescue efforts, causing concern among travelers and tour operators.
The governor of Cusco, Werner Salcedo, criticized the handling of casualty transportation, expressing concern that private clinics might be prioritizing business over patient care. Peruvian authorities have halted local rail services to secure the area while investigations and recovery operations are underway.