Egypt Passenger Train Collision in Tourist Hot spot Zagazig, Kills 2 and 30 injured

In a devastating train collision in Egypt’s Nile Delta on Saturday, two people were killed and at least 29 others injured when two passenger trains collided in the city of Zagazig, the capital of Sharqiya province and a most popular tourist hotspot renowned for Tell Basta archaeological site. The crash, which occurred in the heart of the city, has once again drawn attention to the ongoing issues plaguing Egypt’s aging railway infrastructure.

Zagazig, the capital of Egypt's Sharqiya province, is known for its rich historical and cultural significance. Located in the Nile Delta, this vibrant city is a blend of traditional Egyptian life and modern growth. Visitors can explore the renowned Tell Basta archaeological site, which holds the ancient ruins of Bubastis, a city dedicated to the cat goddess Bastet. The city also boasts the prestigious Zagazig University and lively local markets, offering a glimpse into everyday Egyptian life. With its proximity to Cairo, Zagazig serves as a convenient cultural stop for travelers exploring the Nile Delta region.

The Egyptian railway authority confirmed the incident in a statement, providing initial details about the location and circumstances of the crash. Egypt’s Health Ministry quickly followed with an update on the casualties, reporting the death of two individuals and at least 29 others injured, some of whom were in critical condition. Emergency services rushed to the scene, where rescue efforts unfolded as authorities began investigating the cause of the collision.

According to reports, the crash occurred in the bustling city of Zagazig, a key transportation hub in the Nile Delta. Video footage from the crash site depicted scenes of chaos and urgency as rescue workers and bystanders worked together to free injured passengers from the wreckage. The footage showed one of the train cars crumpled by the force of the collision, with men climbing through windows to reach those trapped inside.

Authorities quickly dispatched ambulances to transport the injured to nearby hospitals. However, due to the scale of the accident and the number of people involved, the scene remained crowded for hours after the collision as local residents and officials continued their rescue efforts.

Witnesses reported that the collision created a loud noise that reverberated through the city, drawing many people from nearby homes and businesses to the site. Eyewitness accounts describe the harrowing scenes of passengers bleeding and screaming for help, with local residents joining first responders in the rescue efforts.

Train derailments, collisions, and other accidents are unfortunately common in Egypt, a country whose railway system has long struggled with aging infrastructure, poor maintenance, and mismanagement. Egypt’s rail network, one of the oldest in the world, has seen countless incidents over the years, many of them deadly.