At least eight people died and twelve were injured Thursday when a passenger train collided with a minibus in Ismailia, Egypt.
The collision occurred in the Suez Canal province at an unauthorized crossing, according to the Egyptian railway authority.
The passenger train was on its regular route when it struck the minibus.
The health ministry dispatched over a dozen ambulances to the scene.
Local reports indicate that children were among the victims, all transported to East Qantara Central Hospital.
One child remains in critical condition. Photographs from the scene depict a mangled red minibus and scattered school supplies, evidence of the tragic event.
Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouly has ordered compensation of 100,000 Egyptian pounds ($1,970) for each deceased victim’s family.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges facing Egypt’s aging railway system. Train crashes are frequent, often attributed to mismanagement and inadequate infrastructure.
Despite government initiatives aimed at improving the railways, including a 2018 pledge of 250 billion Egyptian pounds ($8.13 billion) for network overhaul, accidents persist.
Recent incidents include a locomotive crash in October and a double train collision in September, resulting in fatalities.
The latest tragedy underscores the urgent need for continued improvements to ensure passenger safety.