A freight train derailment occurred on Thursday in Camagüey, resulting in 14 out of 27 cars being thrown off the tracks. This incident disrupted the Central Line and affected at least two passenger train services heading to Havana.
The Cuban Railways Union (UFC) reported that the derailment took place at 3:10 p.m. at kilometer 477.0 on the Central Line, near the locality of Piedrecita in Camagüey province.
The train, designated as Extra Train 83 and powered by locomotive 52582, was transporting containers between the provinces of Artemisa and Holguín. Out of the 27 cars in the train, 25 were loaded.
Preliminary observations from the UFC indicated that no damage was reported to the cargo. Following the derailment, the local railways brigade was activated to assess the necessary repairs to restore train services.
The disruption forced passenger train number 12, which runs the Santiago de Cuba to Havana route, to halt in the city of Camagüey. Provincial and railway authorities assured that they were attending to the needs of the travelers.
Additionally, arrangements were made for the return of the passenger train traveling from Guantánamo to Havana. This train was stationed at Carrera Larga in the El Salvador municipality when the decision to return was made.
The railways assured that measures were being taken to assist passengers affected by both service disruptions. In line with protocol, an investigative commission was established to determine the causes and conditions that led to the accident.
Key Details on the Camagüey Train Derailment
What caused the derailment in Camagüey?
The causes of the derailment are currently under investigation by an appointed commission.
How many train services were affected by the derailment?
At least two passenger train services were affected, including a train running from Santiago de Cuba to Havana and another from Guantánamo to Havana.
Were there any damages reported to the cargo?
Preliminary reports indicate that there were no damages to the cargo on board the train.