GENEVA: Two separate train derailments occurred in northwestern Switzerland on Friday, injuring several people as rescue operations continue, according to local police.
The incidents happened about 30 kilometers apart, north of the Swiss capital Bern, in bad weather conditions. The first derailment happened in the town of Luscherz, while the second incident occurred 20 minutes later in Buren zum Hof.
The exact cause of the derailments is not yet known. Regional rail operators cancelled services on the affected lines due to the disruption caused by the incidents, with the duration of the service disruption unknown.
According to local media reports, the train derailments occurred during a severe storm that hit the region, bringing heavy rain and gusts of wind up to 100 kilometers per hour. The strong winds caused trees and debris to fall onto the tracks, which may have contributed to the derailments.
The first train involved in the incident was travelling between Luscherz and Bienne when it derailed in the town of Luscherz, causing the rear part of the train to fall on its right side. The second incident occurred about 30 kilometers away in Buren zum Hof.
Rescue operation at incidents’ sites in Switzerland
Emergency services, including police, ambulance, and firefighters, were called to the scenes, and rescue operations are still ongoing. The exact number and severity of injuries have not been confirmed, but several people were reported to have been hurt in both incidents.
Train services in the region have been disrupted due to the derailments, with some services being suspended or cancelled. Aare Seeland Mobil, the regional rail operator, said that the duration of the disruption is unknown at this time.
The Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board has launched an investigation into the incidents to determine the cause of the derailments.
