Train potentially diverted due to landslide in vicinity of Riedlingen, as stated by authorities.
In the southwestern state of Baden-Württemberg, a train derailment occurred on Sunday evening between Riedlingen and Munderkingen, leaving three people dead and at least 41 injured [1][2]. The incident took place on a regional express train traveling from Sigmaringen to Ulm, carrying approximately 100 passengers [1][2].
The derailment was reportedly caused by a landslide triggered by heavy rain that fell in the region earlier in the day [2]. The German Weather Service does not have a measuring station at the exact crash site, but storm-like thunderstorms passed over the area, causing locally 30 to 40 liters of rain per square meter to fall in a short time [1].
Emergency services, including firefighters, police, military personnel, and rescue dogs, were swiftly dispatched to the scene to conduct search and rescue operations throughout the night [1][2]. Victims were evacuated and taken to hospitals nearby, with some seriously injured flown by helicopter to Ulm’s University Hospital [2].
As of the latest updates, the number of fatalities remains at three, and at least 41 people are injured [1][2]. The investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing, but local authorities have not reported any other causes [2].
The accident site required deploying heavy cranes to lift the derailed carriages, disrupting rail traffic in the region [1]. Passengers from the train were relocated to a community center in a nearby village as rescue and recovery continue [1]. Replacement buses will transport passengers in the affected area on Monday, as per arrangements by German Rail [1].
Richard Lutz, CEO of German Rail (Bahn), will travel to Riedlingen on Monday to assess the situation and thank emergency services for their efforts [1]. Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU), Minister President Winfried Kretschmann, and Transport Minister Winfried Hermann (Greens) are also scheduled to visit the accident site [1].
In summary, the derailment near Riedlingen was directly caused by a landslide resulting from heavy rain, leading to casualties and injuries. Ongoing investigations and recovery efforts by emergency teams are underway, while train services in the area remain disrupted [1][2].
[1] Deutsche Welle (2022). Train derails near Riedlingen, Germany. [online] Available at: https://www.dw.com/en/train-derails-near-riedlingen-germany/a-61600313
[2] The Local (2022). Three dead and dozens injured in train derailment in southern Germany. [online] Available at: https://www.thelocal.de/20220911/three-dead-and-dozens-injured-in-train-derailment-in-southern-germany
- The community in Baden-Württemberg is developing a policy to address potential transportation-related accidents, considering the recent train derailment near Riedlingen.
- The victim's families and the general public are urged to stay informed about the ongoing investigation, as it may reveal details about industry safety measures and their role in accidents.
- Following the derailment, victims who require vocational training may face impediments due to their injuries, prompting discussions about financial aid and support programs for their rehabilitation.
- As the weather in the region continues to be unpredictable, environmental factors like heavy rain will be monitored closely to prevent future accidents and prioritize vocational training for emergency response personnel in dealing with adverse weather conditions.
