Machu Picchu train accident results in one fatality and many injured

A train operator has lost their life and over 40 individuals have sustained injuries in a frontal train crash near Peru’s top tourist destination, Machu Picchu.

On Tuesday, two trains crashed on the single railway that leads to the historical Inca site, as reported by the local government.

They mentioned that 20 ambulances were deployed to the site and that those who were injured were transported to healthcare facilities in Cusco, the nearest city.

The US embassy in Peru indicated that American citizens were among those injured in the collision, but authorities have not yet verified the identities of those involved.

Local news source Peru21 states that “hundreds” of visitors are still at the location waiting for evacuation, which has been “hindered” by challenging terrain around the accident area.

At least 20 individuals among the injured are reported to be in critical condition, according to a health official speaking to Reuters.

The accident occurred on the railway connecting Ollantaytambo Station and Aguas Calientes, the nearest settlement to Machu Picchu. The trip typically takes about 90 minutes.

The trains involved in the incident were operated by PeruRail and Inca Rail.

“We are profoundly sorry for the incident,” stated PeruRail in a release, adding that its personnel had “promptly” given first aid to the train driver, conductor, and passengers affected.

The reason behind the collision is still unclear.

This incident arises amid a continuing conflict among transport providers to the UNESCO heritage site, with local communities expressing dissatisfaction over what they claim is a non-transparent bidding process.

The trains and buses transporting tourists to the historic location have high ticket prices and can be very profitable given the site’s limited access.

Located in the Peruvian Andes and established in the 15th Century, the Incan site of Machu Picchu is recognized as one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World.

Visitors have the option to take various trains and buses to access the site or trek along the Inca trail with an authorized tour guide.

In 2011, authorities set a daily visitor limit to conserve and maintain the site, but concerns regarding overtourism persist.