Turkey: Train accident kills nine in Ankara December 13

Event

A high-speed passenger train collided with another locomotive at Ankara's Marsandiz station around 06:30 (local time) on Thursday, December 13, resulting in nine deaths, 84 injuries, and infrastructure damage to the rail station. The accident occurred in Yenimahalle district (Ankara province) to the west of the capital city when the passenger train struck a locomotive conducting routine railway inspections. The collision also damaged part of the station's infrastructure, including a pedestrian overpass that subsequently collapsed onto the tracks. Train service disruptions are expected between Ankara and destination to the west until the railway is cleared.

Context

Turkey has experienced a number of fatal train accidents in recent years as a result of signal failures and excessive speeds.

Advice

Individuals are advised to confirm rail reservations, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, and anticipate transportation disruptions.