Egypt train collision kills at least seven, injures more than 100

· Politics · Egypt

Two passenger trains collided south of Cairo on Sunday, killing at least seven people and injuring more than 100, Egypt's health ministry said, with some reports putting the injury toll at 112 to 114. The crash occurred in al-Ayyat district in Giza province, roughly 30 to 47 kilometres from the capital, when one train struck the rear of another travelling in the same direction; several carriages derailed and fell down an embankment. The public prosecutor's office said investigations were under way to determine the technical reasons behind the crash, and the president ordered a prompt investigation. The UAE expressed solidarity with Egypt and condolences over the victims. Egypt has a long record of deadly rail accidents.

Why it matters:The crash renews scrutiny of Egypt's ageing rail system, where deadly accidents have recurred for years despite repeated safety pledges.

Key points

  • The crash occurred in al-Ayyat, about 30 km south of Cairo.
  • One train hit the rear of another travelling in the same direction.
  • The public prosecutor is investigating the technical cause.

Sources (original reporting)

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