Huge protests rock Spain after deadly train crash, demonstrators clash with cops
Hundreds of protesters gathered outside Spain’s Transport Ministry to demand the resignation of Transport Minister scar Puente following a deadly high-speed train collision that killed at least 68 people. Demonstrators chanted “scar Puente, minister of death” as police moved against the protesters.
The demonstration came as rescue workers continued searching the wreckage after Wednesday’s collision in Urda, south of Madrid. The crash marked Spain’s second fatal rail accident this year and Europe’s deadliest since 2013. advertisement❮❯ Read Full StoryPROTESTERS TARGET TRANSPORT MINISTERThe protesters gathered outside the Transport Ministry, directing their anger at Puente over the deadly accident. Chants branding him the “minister of death” were heard as police moved against the demonstrators.
The protest followed the collision of two Spanish high-speed trains, which left at least 68 people dead and dozens injured. The incident has intensified scrutiny of railway safety in Spain, which has witnessed two fatal rail crashes in the same year.
Rescue efforts continued overnight at the collision site in Urda on Wednesday, October 28, as emergency workers searched through the wreckage for more victims. Credit: Reuters Emergency personnel were seen inspecting what appeared to be a casualty at the scene and carrying a body wrapped in a blanket out of one of the trains. Two cranes were also deployed to assist rescue operations.
The death toll stood at at least 68, with dozens more people injured.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said in a televised address from near the accident site that “all of Spain” was in mourning. He described the incident as a “terrible tragedy” and promised an investigation into the crash, adding that any failures identified would be addressed.
Sanchez said the causes of the two fatal rail accidents this year appeared to be unrelated. He also vowed to strengthen safety measures if necessary to restore confidence in Spain’s high-speed rail network.
The opposition People’s Party cancelled all its campaign events for the day ahead of an election next month.SIGNAL FAILURE UNDER SCRUTINY
Transport Minister scar Puente said the crash occurred after a Renfe train was authorised to continue its journey despite an active red signal, with a stationary train ahead.
The circumstances surrounding the collision are expected to be examined as part of the investigation into the disaster.- EndsWith AFP and Reuters inputs
Subodh Kumar is a journalist working with India Today/AajTak, specialising in foreign affairs, geopolitics, and counterterrorism, with a focus on Afghanistan and Pakistan. Known for his analytical approach, he combines rigorous data analysis with in-depth research to deliver insightful reporting on complex global issues.
