Metrorail train travelling from Cape Town to Wellington derailed in Paarl last night, resulting in passengers being hospitalised. The incident occurred as the train was en route through the Boland region of the Western Cape.
A video posted by @ManqindiSi76479 on X (formerly Twitter) shows the dramatic aftermath of the train derailment at Dal Josafat station. In the footage, bystanders can be seen watching in shock as some passengers attempt to exit the train. Others are seen trying to help those trapped inside.
According to The Citizen, the Drakenstein Disaster Management Team worked tirelessly at the scene. The Drakenstein Farm Watch (DFW), a private fire response group, received a request for urgent assistance at 6:41 PM. Multiple emergency units quickly responded to the call to help those affected and perform rescue operations.
The video pic.twitter.com/NkdVMXPBIM
— Sipiwo Manqindi (@ManqindiSi76479) September 17, 2024
According to a press release issued by PRASA (Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa), 25 people were confirmed injured in the derailment, but fortunately, no fatalities were reported. PRASA also stated that passengers who were at the scene were provided with transport to ensure they arrived safely at their homes.
The agency stated that an investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the derailment update will be provided once they conclude the investigation.
[Media Release]
TRAIN DERAILMENT AT DAL JOSAFAT STATION NEAR PAARL . pic.twitter.com/1gWcFTs829— Cape Town Community Safety Reports (@MohauKgolokwane) September 17, 2024
*Major derailment Daljosafat station*
Metro rail passenger train Cape Town
Services on the scene
As received
Update to follow pic.twitter.com/uRpJBGDcgz
— Cape Town Community Safety Reports (@MohauKgolokwane) September 17, 2024
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