An SBB Cargo International freight train, travelling on the RALpin rolling road service from Freiburg im Breisgau via Basle to Novara, Italy and hauled by a BLS Cargo locomotive, derailed after it collided with a concrete section that had fallen from a bridge that was due to be demolished a few days later.
The locomotive driver was killed in the crash, while several lorry drivers travelling in a coach behind the locomotive were also injured.
“I am dismayed and deeply regret this tragic train accident,” says SBB Cargo International CEO, Mr Sven Flore. “Our thoughts are with the crashed train driver and his relatives, and I offer my sincere condolences. We wish the injured drivers a speedy recovery soon.”
SBB Cargo International says it is working with German authorities to determine the cause of the accident. Replacement services were arranged for passengers, while freight services were diverted via Singen and Schaffhausen.
The route is one of the busiest sections of railway in Europe, with lengthy double-track sections normally used by up to 400 trains per day, including 216 freight services.
